Support for Ukraine in Strengthening Gulf States' Air Defense is a Valuable Contribution to Regional Defense - Fatih Ceylan

In a recent interview with the Ukrinform agency, former Turkey's Permanent Representative to NATO, Ambassador Fatih Ceylan, expressed his views on the significance of Ukraine's assistance in enhancing the air defense and counter-drone capabilities of Gulf states, deeming it an extraordinarily important contribution to the region's defense. According to the diplomat, missile and drone attacks from Iran on Persian Gulf states have ushered in a new phase of warfare, fundamentally altering the dynamics on the battlefield.

Ceylan noted that Ukraine's support in strengthening the defense capabilities of Gulf states is invaluable, particularly as these nations face new threats. He emphasized that Ukraine must prioritize its own defense, as it is currently grappling with serious challenges in protecting its territory from Russian missile and drone attacks.

The diplomat also pointed out potential limitations that may arise regarding the scale of support from Ukraine, considering its own needs in missile and counter-drone warfare. “It would be entirely justified for Ukraine to prioritize its own needs in this area,” Ceylan remarked, underscoring the importance of internal security for Ukraine.

Fatih Ceylan also highlighted Ukraine's achievements in conducting warfare under modern conditions, noting that the war Ukraine is waging against Russia to secure its sovereignty and territorial integrity serves as a vivid example of the changing nature of modern warfare. He stressed that these events showcase the new challenges that states face in the context of contemporary conflicts.

Ceylan also expressed concern about the possibility of a new arms race emerging, similar to that which occurred during the Cold War, but with new parameters of warfare in mind. This underscores the necessity for international cooperation and support to ensure stability in the region.

Furthermore, as reported by Ukrinform, yesterday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Ukrainian diplomacy is actively working to restore a permanent presence in Syria and deepen interactions with countries in the region. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to establish new security agreements with partners, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in the face of modern challenges.

Thus, Fatih Ceylan's remarks reflect current trends in the security sphere within the region and the importance of supporting Ukraine in its efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities. This issue remains on the agenda of the international community, as stability in the region is critically important for all states.