Ukraine shares drone defense expertise with Gulf states while escalating military operations against Russia.
Ukraine has sent more than 200 experts to Gulf countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, to assist in defending against Iranian drones, as stated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. These experts are preparing to send nearly three dozen more, building on Ukraine's experience in countering similar threats from Russia.
Zelenskyy addressed the UK Parliament, emphasizing the connection between Iran's drone supplies to Russia and ongoing conflicts. Ukraine has shot down over 44,700 Russian drones during the war, achieving a success rate close to 90 percent, with Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov reporting a record of 3,238 Shahed-type drones downed last month.
Ukraine's Counteroffensive Efforts
Ukrainian forces have intensified strikes on Russian infrastructure, including the Afipsky Oil Refinery and the port of Kavkaz in Russia's Krasnodar Krai, as well as the Aviastar aircraft plant in Ulyanovsk. These attacks have targeted energy sites and defense manufacturing, with reports indicating potential damage to key facilities.
According to Ukrainian military observer Konstantyn Mashovets, Ukrainian forces have recaptured approximately 400 square kilometers of territory in the southern front since January. Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskii confirmed that Ukrainian troops are advancing and liberating populated areas while holding specified positions.
Russia has faced increased sabotage and attacks, with former Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu noting a fourfold rise in air attacks on infrastructure to 23,000 last year. Meanwhile, Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz has trapped oil tankers, leading to a US suspension of sanctions on Russian oil until April 11, providing Russia with a financial boost.
The US administration's decision has resulted in Russia earning extra revenue from higher oil prices, as estimated by sources like the Financial Times. Ukraine continues to offer its combat-proven interceptors, capable of producing at least 2,000 per day, to allies facing similar threats.
