Ukraine Seeks Durable Defense Cooperation with Gulf States

Ihor Fedirko, the CEO of the Ukrainian Council of Defence Industry, announced that Kyiv is actively pursuing sustainable and long-term partnerships with Gulf states, specifically focusing on drone defense technology. In an interview with FRANCE 24, Fedirko highlighted that these diplomatic and industrial efforts have accelerated significantly following the escalation of conflict in the Middle East. He emphasized Ukraine's robust manufacturing capabilities, stating that the country currently possesses the capacity to produce weaponry valued at nearly $55 billion annually. Looking ahead, the Ukrainian defense sector aims to achieve approximately $10 billion in annual exports within the next five years. This strategic pivot underscores Ukraine's intent to leverage its wartime experience and production scale to become a key global supplier of defense systems, while simultaneously strengthening economic and security ties with wealthy Gulf nations. The initiative represents a significant expansion of Ukraine's foreign policy and industrial strategy beyond traditional Western allies.