Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has raised urgent concerns about the geopolitical fallout of a protracted conflict in Iran, warning that it would provide a significant advantage to Russia while undermining Ukraine’s war effort. Speaking in Kyiv, Zelensky noted that Russia’s oil-dependent economy stands to gain from surging oil prices and the loosening of U.S. sanctions, while Ukraine could face shortages of critical air defense systems and other military supplies.
Economic and Military Concerns
Zelensky emphasized that a prolonged war would divert U.S. attention and resources away from Ukraine, further emboldening Russia. "I am sure Russia wants a long war. They have benefits: The U.S. is focusing on the Middle East and may decrease military help to Ukraine. Sanctions are partially lifted. I see only benefits for Russia from the war with Iran continuing," he stated.
"If now they get more money from energy, it doesn't help us," Zelensky added, referring to Russia’s increased revenue from oil sales due to sanctions waivers.
Intelligence Sharing and Regional Stability
During a recent trip to the Middle East, Zelensky discussed security assistance with leaders of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Jordan. Ukrainian military experts have been deployed to the region to help counter Iranian drones, leveraging Ukraine’s experience with air defense systems. Zelensky also disclosed that Ukraine has shared intelligence with regional leaders about Russia’s collaboration with Iran, including the provision of satellite imagery and operational expertise.
"I think Russia is supporting Iran directly, 100%. The same format of sharing satellite images like they did in the case of Ukraine," Zelensky said.
Diplomatic Efforts and Challenges
Zelensky urged regional leaders to pursue diplomatic solutions to end the conflict, even if direct negotiations with Iran prove challenging. Meanwhile, he expressed disappointment over the stalled Ukraine peace process, citing the U.S.’s focus on Iran. A recent meeting between Ukrainian officials and former Trump advisors Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff yielded no progress.
Zelensky also addressed Ukraine’s strained relationship with Israel, noting that Israel has not sought Ukraine’s assistance despite other regional countries doing so. "It is up to Israel to decide" whether to engage with Ukraine, he said, emphasizing Ukraine’s readiness to share its unique expertise in exchange for needed resources.