US and Gulf Allies Seek Increased Protection Amid Ongoing Iran Conflict

US Asks Ukraine for Assistance in Defending Against Iranian Drones

The United States has requested Ukraine’s assistance in protecting its military bases in the Gulf from Iranian retaliatory strikes. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on March 6 that his country would send military experts to the region. Two days later, he also dispatched chief negotiator Rustem Umerov to sell Ukrainian interceptor drones to Gulf states.

According to Zelenskyy, more than 10 European and Middle Eastern countries have reached out to Ukraine for its support in defending against Iranian drone attacks. The Ukrainian president stated that stability is important for his country, and those seeking assistance must continue to provide support to Ukraine’s defense efforts.

Ukraine has previously struck agreements with several European allies on drone co-production. It has also proposed the same arrangement to the United States. Zelenskyy noted that many countries now recognize the need for this approach.

The Washington Post reported on March 6 that Russia had been assisting Iran in targeting US assets and allies in the Gulf, citing three unnamed US officials. This information was not commented upon by Ukrainian officials.

Additionally, Ukraine has a vested interest in helping the Gulf states due to their reliance on oil exports. The war in the Gulf has led to increased prices for oil, with benchmark Brent crude rising by about $20 since the conflict began. This has generated significant revenue for Russia’s treasury.

Ukraine is also seeking assistance from the Gulf states as they struggle to counter Iranian drone attacks using expensive Patriot interceptors. Ukrainian officials have expressed concerns that these interceptors are not effective against cheap drones like those used by Iran.

Source: Al Jazeera