Ukraine and Kuwait begin new phase of military cooperation

Ukraine and Kuwait have launched a new chapter in their bilateral relationship, signing a significant agreement to bolster cooperation in the military and defense sectors. The pact marks a new stage in the partnership between the two nations, focusing on military technology, defense, and security.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba expressed gratitude to the Emir and government of Kuwait, as well as his counterpart Sheikh Jarrah Al-Sabah, for their support. He emphasized that the agreement opens avenues for joint projects, the exchange of expertise, and the adoption of modern technologies, thereby deepening the strategic dialogue between Kyiv and Kuwait City.

Kuleba highlighted Ukraine's unique experience in defending its statehood against contemporary security threats, particularly in the face of daily Russian aggression. He framed this agreement as a logical continuation of Ukraine's broader strategy to strengthen ties and security cooperation with Gulf states. This initiative follows several important agreements Ukraine has forged in the region this spring under President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's leadership.

The agreement is also positioned as a timely response to ongoing Iranian aerial attacks against Kuwait and other Gulf states. Ukraine reiterated its full solidarity with Kuwait and other members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), strongly condemning any violations of their sovereignty and territorial integrity. Kuleba expressed confidence that the cooperation will significantly contribute to reinforcing the regional security architecture and enhancing the defensive capabilities of Ukraine and its partners in the Gulf.

The ultimate goal, as stated, is to ensure peace, stability, and prosperity throughout the Middle East. This defense cooperation agreement follows discussions between Kuleba and Kuwait's Foreign Minister Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Sabah on March 18, where they specifically addressed the expansion of collaboration in the defense sector, with a particular focus on air defense capabilities.