Even countries with better air defenses can’t stop every Shahed – Ukraine knows how, Zelenskyy says

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukraine’s experience in defending against missile and drone attacks has proven “largely irreplaceable,” as countries in the Middle East confront similar threats.

His comments come as Iran has launched missile and drone attacks on US military bases and allied targets across the Gulf region in retaliation for recent US and Israeli strikes on Iranian territory. These retaliatory strikes have hit bases in Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain, and raised concerns about broader regional conflict escalation.

"Our experience of protection is in many ways irreplaceable"

Zelenskyy noted that even Gulf states with more advanced and more numerous air defense systems than those provided so far to Ukraine have failed to intercept all incoming threats. According to him, not all ballistic missiles were shot down, and some Shahed-type drones also penetrated defenses in the region.

“Everyone now sees that our experience of protection is largely irreplaceable,” he said, referring to Ukraine’s efforts to defend its cities from Russian missile and drone strikes.

Europe must build its own defenses

Zelenskyy argued that Europe must ensure it has the real capability to protect its airspace, land, and sea from different types of attacks. This includes expanding domestic production of air defense systems, both against drones and ballistic missiles.

He added that Ukraine is ready to share its operational experience with countries that supported Kyiv during the winter and throughout the war.

Zelenskyy accuses Iran of fueling wars with drone exports

The president also said Ukraine is closely monitoring developments around Iran, with intelligence services and the Foreign Ministry involved in coordination with international partners. He stressed the importance of preventing further escalation in the region and ensuring support for civilian populations.

Zelenskyy criticized the Iranian leadership, accusing it of supporting wars in the region and supplying Russia with Shahed drones and production technology used in attacks on Ukraine.

He thanked countries working to prevent the expansion of war and to defend against strikes linked to Iran, and expressed hope that international resolve would bring accountability.