Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has claimed the United States has asked Kyiv for assistance in protecting against Iranian-made “Shahed” drones in the Middle East.

Zelenskyy said he has authorised the supply of Ukrainian-produced equipment and ordered that Ukrainian specialists be made available to support the effort.

“We received a request from the United States for specific support in protection against ‘shaheds’ in the Middle East region,” he said. “I gave instructions to provide the necessary means and ensure the presence of Ukrainian specialists who can guarantee the required security.”

Ukraine has extensive experience dealing with Shahed-type drone attacks during Russia’s war, and Zelenskyy framed the move as reciprocal support for partners backing Ukraine’s own security.

He also suggested the widening Iran conflict could complicate — or delay — future peace talks focused on ending Ukraine’s war with Russia.