Iran war turns Ukraine into security exporter

As US President Donald Trump presses allies to assist the United States and Israel in their war against Iran, most European leaders have ruled out deeper involvement – but one country has stepped up: Ukraine.

Increasing military assistance has been high on the agenda of most Western capitals ever since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. However, the war in Iran has turned the conversation on its head.

With its unique experience in shooting down Iranian-made drones, Kyiv is suddenly well-positioned to offer allies valuable insights. Ukraine, with its innovative anti-drone and air defence experience, has now sent interceptor drones and experts to protect US military bases in Jordan. Teams of Ukrainian military experts are also in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, providing expertise on air defence. Suddenly, Kyiv is a security exporter rather than merely an importer of foreign aid.

“What Ukraine is offering the Gulf states is something rare: operational knowledge…