Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in Saudi Arabia for key discussions on regional security and support for Ukraine in combating drone attacks.

The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, made an unannounced visit to Saudi Arabia shortly after announcing the expansion of Ukraine's role in security in the Middle East. Ukraine is collaborating with five states in the region: Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan, to counter drone attacks, a capability developed during the conflict with Russia. Zelensky confirmed his arrival on platform X, emphasizing the importance of the scheduled meetings and appreciating the support provided by regional partners.

In return, Ukraine is trying to obtain advanced air defense systems from these states, necessary to repel missile attacks from Russia. In parallel, a group of Northern European countries has promised to intensify actions against Russia's "phantom fleet," used for transporting oil subject to sanctions. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that the UK will have the capacity to intercept and inspect ships of this fleet in its waters, to maintain pressure on Moscow.

A recent incident, in which a Turkish tanker was attacked by a naval drone, highlights the tensions in the region. Officials in Turkey have not confirmed whether Ukraine is behind the attack.