Zelensky visits Saudi Arabia after offering Ukraine's drone expertise - BBC

BBC
March 26, 2026
3 min read

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Saudi Arabia and offered to share Ukraine's drone technology expertise with the kingdom. The visit represents an effort by Zelensky to broaden Ukraine's international partnerships and generate diplomatic support beyond traditional Western allies. Saudi Arabia's interest in Ukrainian drone capabilities reflects the technological advances Ukraine has developed since Russia's 2022 invasion, particularly in unmanned aerial systems used in combat. The outreach to a major Middle Eastern power also signals Zelensky's strategy to build coalitions that could translate into political leverage in peace negotiations and continued military assistance. Ukraine's willingness to export its battlefield experience positions it as a potential military technology partner rather than solely a dependent nation seeking aid.

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