Key facts
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy discussed a drone deal and food security with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
- Zelenskiy stated that Ukraine and Saudi Arabia can strengthen each other's ability to protect lives and people.
- The two leaders also discussed broader security cooperation.
- Ukraine and Saudi Arabia previously signed a military cooperation agreement in March.
- Zelenskiy noted that Ukraine has developed expertise with Iranian-designed drones.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy held discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday, focusing on a potential drone deal and food security. Zelenskiy expressed optimism on X about the potential for Ukraine and Saudi Arabia to bolster each other's protective capabilities, highlighting cooperative domains in their bilateral relations.
Speaking in his nightly video address, Zelenskiy noted that a Ukrainian delegation was in the region and that relations were developing well, anticipating reciprocity in mutual support. Ukraine and Saudi Arabia had previously signed an agreement on military cooperation in March, and Zelenskiy has stated that Ukraine's battle-proven solutions against Iranian drone attacks are delivering results in the Middle East. He also offered Kyiv's expertise to help restore free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.