Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived today, Sunday, in the Jordanian capital Amman, as part of a regional tour that includes Gulf countries, where he seeks to enhance defense cooperation in the face of increasing security threats, particularly from Iran. This visit comes at a sensitive time when the region is witnessing escalating tensions, with ongoing Iranian attacks targeting vital installations in Gulf countries.
Arab nations are looking to benefit from Ukrainian expertise accumulated over five years of facing Iranian drone attacks, which Russia is using extensively in its war against Ukraine. In return, Kyiv hopes to secure additional funding to bolster its military capabilities and address its budget shortfall amid uncertainty surrounding Western aid.
Details of the Visit
During his visit, Zelensky is scheduled to meet with King Abdullah II, where discussions will focus on security developments in the region and bilateral relations between the two countries. Zelensky announced via X platform that his visit emphasizes the security file, asserting that "security is the top priority" and that it is essential for all partners to make the necessary efforts to achieve it.
A Ukrainian official also reported that a team of Ukrainian military experts is present in Jordan as part of the cooperation to counter aerial threats. Kyiv has sent over 200 military and security experts to Middle Eastern countries to advise on countering aerial attacks, especially those carried out by Iranian drones.
Background & Context
Zelensky's visit to Jordan follows intensive talks he held in Gulf countries, where Ukraine signed defense cooperation agreements with both Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, in addition to a similar agreement with Saudi Arabia. In Doha, Zelensky met with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, where a defense cooperation agreement was signed, including the exchange of expertise in countering missiles and drones.
In Abu Dhabi, Zelensky met with the UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, where they discussed ways to enhance security and defense cooperation, amid what the UAE described as "ongoing Iranian aggression." Zelensky also visited Saudi Arabia, where he met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, discussing bilateral relations and military developments in the region.
Impact & Consequences
Zelensky's visit to Jordan and Gulf countries highlights the importance of regional cooperation in addressing increasing security threats, particularly from Iran. Strengthening defense cooperation between Ukraine and Gulf countries reflects a shared desire to confront security challenges and enhances these nations' ability to respond to aerial attacks.
These agreements also represent a strategic step for Ukraine in securing additional military and financial support, assisting it in facing the challenges it encounters in its war against Russia. These moves are expected to strengthen relations between Ukraine and Gulf countries, opening the door for new partnerships in other fields.
Regional Significance
Zelensky's visit to Jordan is part of broader efforts to enhance regional security amid rising tensions. Defense cooperation with Ukraine may help Arab nations bolster their military capabilities, especially in facing Iranian threats, which have become more pronounced recently.
In light of the increasing Iranian attacks on civilian installations in Gulf countries, enhancing cooperation with Ukraine could provide Arab nations with new tools to counter these threats. These moves also reflect a shift in regional policies towards greater security cooperation, which may contribute to long-term stability in the region.