10/04/2026
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10/04/2026
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UZHHOROD, Apr 10: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed that Ukrainian forces took part in defensive air operations in multiple foreign countries, using domestically produced interceptor drones to help counter Iranian-designed Shahed drones.
In remarks released on Friday, Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the operations were not training exercises but “support in building a modern air defence system that can actually work,” adding that Ukrainian personnel operated across several countries prior to a tentative ceasefire reached in the Middle East between Iran, the United States, and Israel.
He said Ukraine did not publicly disclose the countries involved but noted that around 228 Ukrainian specialists were deployed in the region to assist in strengthening air defence capabilities.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy also said Ukraine is receiving military support in return, including weapons for protecting energy infrastructure, along with oil, diesel, and other financial arrangements. He described the cooperation as part of broader efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s resilience and expand its defence partnerships internationally.
“We are helping strengthen their security in exchange for contributions to our country’s resilience,” he said, adding that such agreements go beyond financial aid and form part of a developing defence export strategy.
The Ukrainian leader said he expects continued Western support, noting that Patriot missile supplies are still arriving and that a new batch has recently reached Ukraine.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy also confirmed he had invited US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to visit Kyiv for discussions on security guarantees, though it remains unclear whether the visit will proceed.
His remarks come as global attention shifts toward the Middle East conflict, raising concerns in Kyiv over potential competition for Western air defence systems, while Ukraine continues to face sustained pressure along its front line with Russia.
