Ukraine deploys defense team to Persian Gulf amid Strait of Hormuz blockade
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Abdullateef Fowewe
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced that a military and defense ministry team, led by Rustem Umerov, is en route to the Persian Gulf to share Ukraine’s expertise in drone defence.
The move comes amid Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which has disrupted roughly 20% of global oil flows since March 2, 2026, rattling energy markets and heightening regional tensions.
In a post on social media, Zelenskyy emphasised the urgency of the mission.
“Our team is now on its way to the Gulf region, where they can help protect lives and stabilize the situation,” he wrote.
He highlighted the blockade’s global impact, noting, “the Iranian regime has effectively blocked the Strait of Hormuz – one of the main routes for supplying oil and gas to the global market. This is a major source of instability.”
Zelenskyy tied the offer to Ukraine’s own needs, urging reciprocal support.
“Those now seeking Ukraine’s help must continue to assist our own defense – first and foremost, our air defence,” he stated.
He revived a 2025 proposal for a U.S.-Ukraine drone production pact, adding, “Ukraine has the greatest experience in the world in countering attack drones, and without our experience it will be very difficult for the Gulf region, the entire Middle East, and partners in Europe and America to build strong protection.”
