Ukrainian forces shot down Shahed drones during Iran war, Zelenskyy says

Key Points:

• Ukrainian military personnel have actively participated in shooting down Iranian-designed Shahed drones in multiple Middle Eastern countries, using domestically produced interceptor drones to help partners counter weapons also used by Russia in Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed.
• These operations were part of efforts to build effective modern air defense systems abroad, with Ukrainian experts deployed across several nations, in exchange for weapons, fuel supplies, and financial support to bolster Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and resilience.
• Despite concerns that Middle East conflicts might divert Western military aid, Zelenskyy confirmed continued deliveries of Patriot missile systems and emphasized ongoing cooperation to maintain Ukraine’s air defense capabilities amid anticipated increased political and battlefield pressures.
• Zelenskyy also expressed readiness to reciprocate a temporary Easter ceasefire announced by Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling for a peaceful holiday and genuine progress toward ending hostilities, though previous ceasefires have seen violations from both sides.
• Additionally, Zelenskyy expects Western allies to reinstate full sanctions on Russian oil to hinder Moscow’s war financing, noting Ukraine’s intensified strikes on Russian energy sites and the impact of global energy disruptions linked to the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz tensions.