P resident Zelenskyy Arrives in Jordan To Strengthen Defense Ties Amid Regional Tensions
Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has landed in Jordan as part of his ongoing diplomatic tour aimed at enhancing defense collaborations in the Gulf region amid the escalating conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran.
In a post shared on X, Zelenskyy announced his arrival yesterday, stating that an “important meeting” was scheduled. He emphasized the significance of security, urging all partners to contribute to collective efforts in this area.
“Today in Jordan, Security is the top priority, and it is important that all partners make the necessary efforts toward it,” he wrote.
As the war between Russia and Ukraine drags on with no resolution in sight, Zelenskyy has been actively seeking support from Gulf nations. With over four years since Russia’s full-scale invasion, Kyiv is grappling with a budget deficit and challenges in financing domestic arms production.
Despite these challenges, Ukraine has ramped up its retaliatory strikes on Russian infrastructure, targeting refineries, oil depots, and ports, which it claims are legitimate targets aimed at disrupting revenue streams that fuel Russia’s military operations.
Yesterday, a drone attack reportedly ignited a fire at Russia’s Baltic port of Ust-Luga, marking the second assault on the facility within a few days.
According to Russian Regional Governor, Alexander Drozdenko, the port sustained damage, but the fire was brought under control, and there were no reported casualties. He also noted that 36 drones were intercepted overnight in the area.
Zelenskyy’s visit follows Ukraine’s agreements to enhance defense cooperation with Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Ukrainian anti-drone specialists have been dispatched to these countries as Iran increasingly targets their infrastructure with drones similar to those utilized by Russia during its campaign against Ukraine.
A senior Ukrainian official, speaking anonymously to AFP, confirmed that a Ukrainian team is also present in Jordan, although further details were not disclosed.
In its efforts to counter drone threats, Ukraine employs a combination of affordable drone interceptors, electronic jamming devices, and anti-aircraft artillery.
By: Madeline Moore