The Inside Story Podcast Why are Gulf countries signing deals with Ukraine?
Mar 28, 2026
Pavel Felgenhauer, Moscow-based defence and Russian policy analyst; Oleksiy Melnyk, Kyiv security and defence strategist; Dania Thafer, Gulf security expert in Washington. They discuss Gulf states’ rush for Ukrainian drone know-how. They explore shifting Gulf ties with Russia, risks to Ukraine from Middle East tensions, and how low-cost drone systems fit alongside expensive air-defence networks.
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Ukraine Erodes Russia's Gulf Influence
- Russia is losing Gulf influence as Ukraine secures defence and trade ties with Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
- Pavel Felgenhauer highlights Zelensky's visits and new defence deals as a surprising shift that worries Moscow.
Middle East Fighting Drains Global Focus And Air Defence Supplies
- The Middle East conflict diverts global attention and strains supplies like air-defence missiles crucial for Ukraine.
- Oleksiy Melnyk warns this reduces focus on the Russia-Ukraine war and intensifies competition for PATRIOT missiles.
Gulf States Add Ukrainian Anti-Drone Tech Not Replace US Defences
- Gulf states are diversifying security: they pair US missile defence with Ukrainian anti-drone tech rather than replace one with the other.
- Dania Thafer stresses Ukrainian systems are cost-effective complements to Patriots for drone threats.