Zelenskyy secures defence pact with Qatar as US-Israel-Iran war escalates

Business, International, Middle East, Technology

INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — 28 March 2026 — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in Doha as part of his country’s ongoing security support to Gulf states battered by waves of Iranian missile and drone attacks in the wake of the United States–Israel–Iran conflict.

Ukraine, hardened by years of Russian aggression, has emerged as a sought-after partner in countering Iran’s cheap drone swarms across the Middle East. On Saturday, Zelenskyy met the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, with Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani also in attendance.

Earlier, Zelenskyy was also in Saudi Arabia, where he met Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss regional security cooperation and the strengthening of defence ties.

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In a statement, Zelenskyy confirmed that both sides agreed on a decade-long defence partnership. Chiefs of the General Staff signed an accord covering joint defence industry projects, co-production facilities, and technological collaboration between companies. “I provided an update on the security situation in Ukraine, the ongoing Russian attacks, and Russia’s close cooperation with the Iranian regime. Strengthening air defence is a priority for us, and we count on support from our partners,” Zelenskyy said.

He expressed gratitude for Qatar’s warm reception and readiness to cooperate, describing the agreements reached as “concrete steps” towards protecting lives and enhancing regional security.