Umerov Briefs Zelenskyy on Middle East Talks and Security Cooperation.

Security Discussions Focus on Middle East and Gulf Region

According to Novyny.live: On March 20, 2023, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy received a detailed briefing from Rustem Umerov regarding ongoing negotiations in the Middle East and the Gulf region. The discussion centered on countering Iranian terrorist activities and exploring avenues for international collaboration to restore stability. Zelenskyy underscored the critical need for joint action against terrorism, stating,

“Our teams are already working with five countries on countering ‘Shahed’ drones.”

International Engagement and Emerging Threats

Rustem Umerov, Secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council, reported that over 200 Ukrainian experts are currently deployed in the Middle East, specifically in the Persian Gulf area. He also highlighted that in February 2023, the United States and Israel launched a military operation against Iran, which included the elimination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. These developments have heightened tensions, with Iranian official Ebrahim Azizi threatening retaliatory strikes against Ukraine for its support of Israel.

In response, President Zelenskyy instructed Umerov to involve Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and military officials in evaluating existing international initiatives. This move reflects Ukraine’s determination to bolster global support in countering terrorist threats and ensuring regional security. The discussions underscore Ukraine’s readiness to play an active role in worldwide efforts to stabilize the Middle East.

This meeting highlights the strategic importance of the Middle East for Ukraine’s national security. Strong partnerships with allies like the United States and Israel could prove pivotal in addressing Iran-linked terrorist risks. Ukraine’s proactive stance in this arena may help shape new alliances and reinforce international security frameworks.