Ukraine and Saudi Arabia have signed a defence cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening military ties and expanding collaboration in security, technology, and investment.
The agreement was concluded ahead of a planned meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
In a statement shared on Friday, Zelenskyy said the pact establishes a framework for future defence contracts, joint technological initiatives, and investment opportunities. He noted that the agreement also enhances Ukraine’s position as a contributor to global security.
According to him, Ukraine is prepared to share its military expertise and defence systems with Saudi Arabia to help improve the protection of lives. He emphasized that both nations stand to benefit from the partnership, given their respective capabilities.
Zelenskyy also pointed to similarities between Ukraine’s ongoing security challenges and developments in the Middle East, particularly the use of ballistic missiles and drones. He said such shared threats make cooperation between the two countries both relevant and timely.
Beyond defence, discussions between both sides covered broader regional issues, including security in the Gulf, energy market trends, and potential collaboration in fuel supply and energy development.
The agreement outlines key areas of mutual interest such as defence capabilities, joint projects, and strategic investment. It reflects growing diplomatic engagement between Ukraine and Saudi Arabia at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, following reported drone attacks linked to Iran.
Zelenskyy further disclosed that the United States had engaged Ukraine on matters relating to military operations in the Middle East. He added that Ukrainian technical teams are already working with some countries in the region to assess needs and provide support.
The development comes amid escalating conflict involving Iran, which has reportedly carried out missile and drone strikes on U.S. military facilities in the region, disrupting operations and forcing personnel to relocate from key bases.
Overall, the Ukraine-Saudi defence pact signals a deepening of strategic cooperation between both nations as they navigate evolving global and regional security challenges.
