Zelenskyy reviews Ukraine experts' work on air defence in Saudi Arabia
Riyadh, March 28
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently met military experts from Ukraine who have been stationed in Saudi Arabia for more than a week. The meeting focused on their work and early findings on improving air defence systems.
Zelenskyy said the experts presented their first results and shared both operational and broader conclusions on strengthening protection against Iranian "Shaheds" and missile threats.
"The main task of our air defence experts in this region is to identify challenges and determine what changes are needed to strengthen the protection of people and lives from Iranian 'shaheds' and missiles," Zelenskyy said in a post on X.
He thanked the team for their quick and detailed work, adding that their efforts have already led to concrete steps to improve defence capabilities in the region.
Despite the short time available, the Ukrainian experts shared their experience and explained how Ukraine protects its citizens and critical infrastructure during ongoing attacks.
Zelenskyy said Ukraine's experience in air defence has gained global attention. "Ukraine's expertise is unique, and recognized as such, and that is why everyone is so interested in our technologies and experience," he said.
The discussions in Saudi Arabia focused on improving air defence systems, with special attention on countering drone threats. The talks also looked at ways to adapt Ukraine's battlefield experience to strengthen defence in other regions.
Zelenskyy said Ukraine is ready to continue long-term cooperation with Saudi Arabia. "We are ready for long-term and mutually beneficial cooperation," he said, adding that he is proud of the country's people and their resilience.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While it's good to see nations sharing expertise, I hope our government is paying close attention. The threat from drones is real for us too, given our neighbourhood. We need to invest heavily in indigenous R&D for air defence, not just rely on imports.
Saudi-Ukraine cooperation is a smart move. It shows how modern warfare is changing. India has its own challenges with cross-border drone threats. Our forces are capable, but continuous technological upgrade is the need of the hour. Jai Hind.
Respectfully, the article focuses on the technical exchange, but I can't help thinking of the human cost that created this "expertise." My heart goes out to all civilians caught in conflict zones. Peace should be the ultimate goal for all nations.
Geopolitics is complex. Saudi Arabia engaging with Ukraine while maintaining ties with Russia and Iran is a diplomatic dance. India navigates similar complex relationships. Our foreign policy of strategic autonomy seems more relevant than ever.
The mention of countering Iranian 'Shaheds' is key. It highlights a specific threat vector. Our defence analysts must be studying this closely. Self-reliance in defence tech is not just a slogan, it's a necessity for a nation like ours.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.