Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Bahraini King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on May 5, 2026
Ukraine's Zelenskyy proposes drone deal to Bahrain
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy offers drone cooperation to Bahrain
- Talks focus on regional security, including Strait of Hormuz tensions
- Both sides agree to explore defense and economic partnerships
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposed a drone cooperation deal during a visit to Bahrain, highlighting Ukraine’s experience in countering aerial threats.
During his meeting with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa in Manama, Zelenskyy said Ukraine is ready to share its defense expertise, particularly in intercepting drones used in modern warfare.
Since the US and ‘Israeli’ war on Iran began on February 28, Ukraine has been offering drone technology and expertise to Middle Eastern countries facing Iranian drone attacks, drawing on its experience countering similar threats during its war with Russia.
"Our country is facing similar terrorist strikes almost every day, and our people have relevant experience in full-scale defence," he wrote on X. "Ukraine is ready to share this security expertise with Bahrain and help strengthen the protection of life."
I held a meeting on our diplomatic work in the Middle East and the Gulf, as well as the latest results of Ukrainian military expert teams that are bolstering defense.
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) May 5, 2026
Unfortunately, Iran carried out reckless strikes against the UAE yesterday. Overall military tensions in the… pic.twitter.com/TrZdex46uE
Regional tensions discussed
The talks addressed recent security developments in the Gulf, including attacks linked to Iran and tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. Zelenskyy said Ukraine faces similar attacks “almost every day,” referring to ongoing strikes since Russia’s offensive in 2022.
Both sides agreed to task their teams with working out details of a potential drone agreement.
Broader cooperation
In addition to defense, discussions covered economic ties, agriculture, and the possibility of opening embassies and introducing visa-free travel between the two countries.
The visit marks Zelenskyy’s first trip to Bahrain and the first high-level meeting between the two nations’ leaders in over two decades.
