Zelensky Warns That War in the Middle East Undermines Support for Ukraine, Calls for Patriotism

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, speaking via video link from Kyiv to European Union leaders during a roundtable at the EU summit in Brussels, has cautioned that the protracted war in the Middle East is distracting global priorities from Kyiv, making Ukrainian cities more susceptible to Russian missile attacks.

In an interview with the Associated Press, Zelensky expressed his 'fear' that the conflict, which has now entered its sixth week, could lead to a reduction in supplies of American Patriot air defense missiles. Ukraine remains highly dependent on these systems to counter daily aerial assaults from Russia.

"We must acknowledge that today we are not a priority," Zelensky stated. "That is why I fear that the prolonged war [in Iran] will provide us with less support." He emphasized that if the conflict in the Middle East does not conclude soon, the already limited supply of interceptor missiles will become 'smaller and smaller with each passing day.'

To maintain Ukraine's relevance on the international stage, Zelensky proposed a technology exchange with Gulf countries. He noted that Ukraine could share its advanced expertise and technologies in interceptors and maritime drones—funded by American and European partners—in exchange for missile defense systems from the region.

Zelensky also positioned Ukraine as a potential partner in ensuring global trade, offering to assist in opening the Strait of Hormuz by applying lessons learned from securing maritime corridors in the Black Sea.

The president highlighted that the war in the Middle East is generating significant economic gains for the Kremlin. The rise in oil prices caused by the conflict could pose a serious challenge for Ukraine, which is already grappling with the repercussions of Russian aggression.

At the same time, the situation in Ukraine remains critically important for the international community, and Zelensky called for more active measures from Western partners to support the country during this difficult time. He stressed that without adequate support, Ukraine could find itself in even greater peril as Russia continues its aggressive actions.

Zelensky also pointed out the importance of the international community not forgetting about Ukraine, even as the world's attention is focused on other conflicts, such as the war in the Middle East. He called for solidarity and joint efforts in combating aggression that threatens not only Ukraine but also global security.