Amman: Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in Jordan as part of a regional tour aimed at strengthening defence cooperation with Gulf nations with the ongoing war involving the United States and Israel against Iran.
The Ukrainian leader confirmed his arrival in a post on X, indicating that an ‘important meeting’ was scheduled during the visit. Zelenskyy stated that, “Today in Jordan. Security is the top priority, and all partners must make the necessary efforts toward it.”
Today in Jordan. Security is the top priority, and it is important that all partners make the necessary efforts toward it. Ukraine is doing its part. Important meetings ahead. pic.twitter.com/561KtqoglT
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 29, 2026
Zelenskyy’s visit comes as Kyiv intensifies efforts to secure strategic backing from Gulf states while continuing to grapple with the prolonged war against Russia. More than four years into the conflict, Ukraine faces mounting financial pressure, including a widening budget deficit and the need to sustain domestic weapons production.
Despite these challenges, Ukraine has stepped up retaliatory strikes targeting Russian infrastructure, including oil refineries, ports, and depots, arguing such actions are necessary to disrupt revenue streams funding Moscow’s military campaign.
Ukraine claimed responsibility for a drone strike that sparked a fire at Russia’s Baltic port of Ust-Luga, the second such attack in recent days. Regional governor Alexander Drozdenko said the fire had been contained and confirmed there were no casualties, adding that 36 drones were intercepted overnight.
Zelenskyy’s regional outreach follows recent defence cooperation agreements between Ukraine and Gulf countries, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Ukrainian anti-drone specialists have reportedly been deployed to these nations to help counter aerial threats, particularly as Iran increases the use of drones targeting infrastructure in the region.
A senior Ukrainian official also confirmed that a Ukrainian team is currently present in Jordan, though further details were not disclosed. Ukraine’s counter-drone strategy combines low-cost interceptor drones, electronic jamming systems, and anti-aircraft weaponry, a mix that has proven increasingly critical both on the battlefield and in assisting international partners facing similar threats.
MOST READ | Antonelli wins Japanese Grand Prix to become youngest F1 championship leader
