Coordinated conflict: how the Ukraine and Iran wars are starting to overlap

The Ukraine and Iran conflicts are increasingly interconnected, drawing in more countries and creating wider instability. Russia has been using Iranian-made drones in Ukraine since September 2022, and is now reportedly providing Iran with intelligence, targeting assistance, and drones. Ukraine is also forging security agreements with Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Jordan, providing drone and anti-drone technology. The conflicts are impacting global energy markets, with disruptions in the Middle East benefiting Russia economically. To stabilize the market, the US has eased restrictions on Russian oil exports, while Asian countries are increasing purchases of Russian oil. Ukraine has intensified strikes on Russian energy infrastructure to limit Russia's profits, demonstrating the tangible impact each conflict has on the other.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Jordan on Sunday as part of a tour to strengthen defense ties in the Gulf region. The visit aims to bolster security cooperation amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and escalating tensions in the Middle East. Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of partners' efforts towards security in a post on X. This visit follows Ukraine's recent agreements to cooperate on defense with Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Kyiv has also deployed anti-drone experts to these countries due to Iranian drone attacks, similar to those used by Russia in the war against Ukraine. Zelenskyy is seeking support from Gulf states as Ukraine struggles to fund its defense and retaliates against Russian infrastructure.

Volodymyr Zelensky has been touring Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, to promote Ukraine's air defense technology. He claims Ukraine has altered the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, particularly regarding defense against Iranian drones and missiles. Ukraine is marketing its drone interception technology, developed to counter Russian attacks, as a solution to the Iranian drone threat faced by Gulf nations. These defense agreements could provide Ukraine with significant financial benefits amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia and potential slowdowns in Western aid. The deals aim to capitalize on Ukraine's wartime innovations and create economic opportunities despite the challenges posed by the Russian invasion.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is offering Ukraine's advanced anti-drone technology to Middle Eastern allies, including the UAE, Qatar, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, in exchange for ballistic missile support and financial aid. Zelenskyy met with UAE's President in Abu Dhabi to discuss a potential agreement, highlighting Ukraine's unique electronic warfare and drone interception systems. This initiative aims to strengthen defense partnerships as these nations confront growing drone threats, particularly from Iran. Zelenskyy emphasized the reciprocal nature of these partnerships, seeking critical air defense weapons like PAC-3 Patriot missiles to address Ukraine's own defense deficit. He also cautioned that increasing U.S. military focus on the Middle East could potentially slow weapon deliveries to Ukraine, while Russia is reportedly sharing drone technology and battlefield tactics with Iran.

Gulf nations, facing increased missile and drone attacks from Iran since the US-Israeli war began a month ago, are seeking new defense partnerships. Ukraine, having developed cost-effective interceptor drones due to ongoing attacks from Russia, is being approached by some Gulf countries for its expertise. Saudi Arabia and Qatar have already signed defense agreements with Ukraine. The potential deals aim to provide Gulf countries with affordable drone defense solutions while offering Ukraine potential benefits. Experts are discussing the potential benefits of Ukrainian drones to Gulf countries under attack from Iran. The discussion was published on March 28, 2026.

During a recent tour of the Gulf states, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed air defense cooperation agreements with the UAE and Qatar. The agreements aim to leverage Ukraine's expertise in countering drones and missiles, particularly in light of increasing threats from Iran. The deal with Qatar, signed on Saturday, focuses on technological collaboration, joint investments, and expertise exchange in countering missiles and unmanned aerial systems. Earlier that day, Zelenskyy announced a similar defense cooperation agreement with the UAE, following a deal with Saudi Arabia on Thursday. Ukraine has deployed anti-drone experts to these countries, seeking to strengthen their defenses and foster mutually beneficial partnerships.

Ukraine and Saudi Arabia have signed a defense agreement focused on technological cooperation, investment, and future contracts. The deal, announced by President Zelenskyy during a visit to Saudi Arabia, aims to be mutually beneficial, leveraging Ukraine's expertise in countering drones and Saudi Arabia's defense capabilities. The agreement comes as Gulf countries face increasing attacks from Iran amid the US and Israel's conflict with Iran. Saudi Arabia has intercepted hundreds of drones and missiles, and Ukraine has extensive experience in combating drone attacks, having faced over 19,000 Russian drone attacks this winter alone. The memorandum focuses on defense procurement.

Overnight Russian drone strikes in Ukraine killed at least five people and injured others in multiple regions, including Odesa, Kryvyi Rih, and Poltava. Ukrainian authorities reported that Russia launched over 270 drones, targeting civilian infrastructure like a maternity hospital and industrial sites. Meanwhile, President Zelenskyy made an unannounced visit to the United Arab Emirates to discuss regional security and drone defense cooperation. Ukraine is assisting several Middle Eastern and Gulf countries, including the UAE, in countering Iranian drone attacks. Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of global protection against terror and discussed the security situation in the Emirates, Iranian strikes, and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz with the Emirati leader.

Ukraine is facing increased pressure due to the ongoing war, as Russia prepares for a new offensive. The article includes images from February and March of 2026 showing Russian military activities in Ukraine, Ukrainian soldiers at the front lines in the Kharkiv region, and the aftermath of Russian missile attacks in Kharkiv. A photo also depicts a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in December 2025. The article highlights the challenges Ukraine faces amidst the conflict and the anticipation of further Russian military action. The specific reasons for the increased pressure beyond the impending offensive are not detailed in the provided text.

The article reports on escalating tensions in the Middle East. Donald Trump expressed surprise that Iran has targeted US allies in the Gulf, despite their long-standing military partnership. These Gulf states, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Oman, have allowed US military presence and are major buyers of American weapons. Now, they are increasingly concerned about being drawn into a conflict they sought to avoid, as Iran launches attacks on various targets within their borders. Separately, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy claimed that Russia is supplying Iran with Shahed drones, some of which he alleges have been used in attacks against US bases. These drones, initially developed by Iran, are now also manufactured by Russia and used by other countries.

Drone attacks disrupted flights at Dubai International Airport on March 16, 2026, causing a fire near the facility. Flights were diverted to Al Maktoum International Airport, and a temporary suspension was implemented as a safety precaution. In Abu Dhabi, a missile strike on a civilian vehicle in Al Bahyan area resulted in one death. A fire also broke out in an industrial zone in Fujairah following a drone attack. These incidents follow previous drone attacks and rising tensions in the region, with Iran justifying the attacks by citing the presence of US military bases in Gulf countries.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that over 200 Ukrainian military experts are deployed in the Gulf region and wider Middle East to assist governments in defending against Iranian drone attacks. Zelenskyy stated that these experts, specializing in anti-drone technology, are currently stationed in the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and are en route to Kuwait, with agreements in place with other nations. He emphasized Ukraine's commitment to preventing the success of Iranian drone terror against its neighbors. Zelenskyy also claimed that Russia has been using Iranian Shahed drones, which he alleges contain Russian components, in its war against Ukraine since 2022. He accuses Iran of providing Russia with the technology to produce and launch these drones.

During a visit to the UK, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that European nations must prepare for potential drone attacks from non-state actors like terrorist groups and criminal networks. He highlighted the increasing affordability and accessibility of drone technology, making mass attacks possible for more than just wealthy states. Zelenskyy emphasized the alliance between Russia and Iran, noting Russia's use of Iranian-designed drones in attacks on Ukraine and the evolution of these drones with AI. He suggested the Middle East conflict is relevant to Ukraine due to shared military technology between Iran and Russia. Zelenskyy offered Ukraine's defensive support to Western allies, including interception teams and radar systems, to protect military and civilian sites.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine is assisting five countries in the Middle East and Gulf region in defending against Iranian drone attacks. Ukraine is providing expert assessments and helping build defense systems, leveraging its experience in developing effective drone interceptors during the conflict with Russia. Zelenskyy also mentioned that the United States and European countries have requested similar support. Ukraine is exploring a potential role in restoring security in the Strait of Hormuz. Kyiv hopes to exchange its drone expertise for advanced air defense missiles, which it needs to counter Russian aerial attacks, amid concerns about dwindling missile supplies due to the Iran war.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in London on Tuesday to meet with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte. The leaders will discuss peacemaking efforts in Ukraine and maintaining sanctions pressure on Russia. The meeting occurs as the Iran war threatens to divert international attention from the conflict in Ukraine. Zelenskyy has criticized the U.S. for temporarily easing some Russian oil sanctions due to the Middle East conflict, arguing it will benefit Moscow. The U.S. President Donald Trump says he wants to secure a peace deal that ends Europe’s biggest conflict since World War II.

The Kremlin announced that peace talks between Russia and Ukraine are on a "situational pause" due to the intensifying conflict in the Middle East. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia hopes the pause will end when the U.S. can refocus on the Ukraine conflict. Despite this, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy indicated that negotiations could resume soon, stating that Kyiv has received signals from the U.S. that it is ready to resume talks. A Ukrainian negotiating team is reportedly en route to the U.S. for meetings. The pause comes as Ukraine is increasingly involved in the Middle East conflict, providing technology to counter Iranian drone attacks.

Amidst the ongoing Israel-United States war with Iran, Ukraine sent specialists to Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan to assist Middle Eastern countries in defending against Iranian drone attacks. President Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine seeks financial support and technology in exchange for its expertise in countering Iranian drones, particularly given Russia's extensive use of similar drones in the Russia-Ukraine war. While Ukraine denies direct involvement in military operations against Iran, it aims to establish long-term drone deals with Gulf countries. Zelenskyy also expressed interest in a drone agreement with the US, potentially worth billions of dollars, but President Trump has indicated that the US does not need Ukraine's assistance.

Iran's Assembly of Experts has selected a new Supreme Leader to succeed Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a joint US-Israeli strike in late February. While the chosen successor's name has not been publicly announced, the selection was confirmed by multiple members of the Assembly. Israel has warned it will target any successor and those involved in the appointment. Mojtaba Khamenei, the deceased leader's son, was considered a frontrunner, although his appointment faces opposition due to concerns about dynastic succession and the regime's human rights record. The selection process occurs amid escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, including strikes on energy infrastructure across the Gulf and inside Iran, with Russia reportedly providing Iran with intelligence.

Amidst escalating conflict in the Middle East, Israel declared the war against Iran was entering a "decisive phase." On Saturday, explosions occurred across the region, including strikes on the US embassy in Baghdad and a major Emirati energy facility in Fujairah. The US embassy in Iraq was hit by a drone, marking the second attack since the US and Israel initiated strikes against Iran, plunging the Gulf into conflict. The ongoing conflict, now in its third week, has resulted in reported deaths of over 1,200 people in Iran, mass displacement, and a surge in oil prices due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian military warned UAE civilians to avoid port areas following the attack on the Fujairah oil terminal.

On March 12, 2026, two foreign oil tankers were attacked in Iraq's al-Faw port amidst ongoing conflict. Kuwait, Qatar, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia intercepted Iranian missiles and drones. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated three conditions for peace: recognition of Iran's rights, war reparations, and international guarantees against future aggression. The events occurred within the context of a larger war involving Iran, with the attacks and conditions highlighting the escalating tensions and potential pathways to resolution. The motivations behind the tanker attacks remain unclear, but they contribute to the instability in the region.

Hamas, the ruling group in Gaza, has made a rare public appeal to its key ally Iran, urging it to cease attacks on Gulf states. The call comes amidst escalating regional tensions, with Iran conducting retaliatory strikes that have impacted civilian infrastructure and resulted in casualties in the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. While affirming Iran's right to self-defense against the US and Israel, Hamas emphasized the need for regional cooperation and an immediate halt to the ongoing conflict. Hamas, a member of Iran's "axis of resistance," receives significant financial, military, and political support from Tehran, even as countries like Turkey and Qatar, also targeted by Iran, provide support to Hamas. The group expressed deep concern over the regional war and called for international intervention to end it.

In March 2026, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates condemned attacks by Iran. The Saudi and UAE ambassadors to the United Nations issued the condemnation ahead of a scheduled Security Council meeting. The specific nature and location of the Iranian attacks were not detailed in the provided article. The purpose of the condemnation was likely to address the attacks through the UN Security Council. The article highlights rising tensions between Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Iran.

In March 2026, Qatar's UN ambassador, Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, condemned Iran's missile and drone attacks across the Middle East as violations of international law and the UN Charter. She urged the UN Security Council to take immediate action to halt these attacks, warning that inaction would signal that aggression against uninvolved nations has no consequences. Her statement came before the Security Council voted on a resolution denouncing the attacks on Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Iran initiated these strikes, targeting what it claimed were US and Israeli assets, after the two countries launched a war against Iran in late February. The attacks have disrupted civilian infrastructure, energy production, and flights, causing casualties in multiple countries, including US service members.

Iranian-designed Shahed drones, costing significantly less than traditional air defense systems, are increasingly used in conflicts from Ukraine to the Middle East, straining U.S. air defenses. Recent attacks, including Operation Epic Fury, targeted U.S. forces and allies in the Gulf, causing casualties and infrastructure damage despite the use of expensive interceptors like Patriot missiles. The high cost of these interceptors raises concerns about the sustainability of this defense strategy. Ukraine, a leader in drone warfare since the 2022 Russian invasion, has developed cheaper interceptor drones, costing as little as $1,400, with a high effectiveness rate against Shahed-type drones. The Pentagon and at least one Gulf government are reportedly interested in Ukraine's low-cost drone interceptor technology as a more affordable solution.

Recent Iranian attacks in the Gulf have expanded beyond traditional oil and gas infrastructure to include data centers, signaling a shift in targeting strategic assets. On March 1st, drone attacks damaged three Amazon Web Services data centers in the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. These attacks suggest a deliberate effort to undermine the Gulf's post-oil future, particularly its ambitions in artificial intelligence. The region's AI investments, supported by partnerships and cloud providers, rely on cheap and reliable power, which is now threatened. This new focus on data centers poses a risk to the Gulf's economic diversification efforts.

An Iranian official warned that any European country aiding in aggression against Iran would become a legitimate target for retaliation. Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi stated this to France24, while President Masoud Pezeshkian apologized to neighboring countries, including Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Oman, for Iranian attacks. Pezeshkian vowed that future attacks would only be in response to aggression against Iran, advocating for diplomatic solutions. Despite this, the UAE reported intercepting 16 ballistic missiles launched from Iran. Takht-Ravanchi also claimed Iran was negotiating with the U.S. in good faith regarding its nuclear program before recent military operations.

In March 2026, amidst the US-Israel war on Iran, the conflict expanded across the Middle East. Iran reportedly targeted the Israeli embassy in Manama, Bahrain, with attacks on the Financial Harbour Towers. Saudi Arabia intercepted a cruise missile east of al-Kharj and three drones near Riyadh. Qatar's air defenses intercepted a drone targeting the Al Udeid Air Base in Doha, which hosts US assets, prompting security alerts and explosions. These Iranian attacks are reportedly retaliatory strikes on nations hosting US forces and assets. The EU has expressed solidarity with Gulf countries as the region faces increased instability.

Multiple Gulf nations, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait, reported missile and drone attacks on Saturday. These attacks occurred despite an earlier apology from the Iranian president to Gulf countries, where he stated they would not be targeted unless strikes originated from their territory. Hours later, Iran declared its intent to continue strikes on sites within Gulf countries it considered to be at the disposal of its enemies. The UAE's president acknowledged the country was in "a period of war." Dubai authorities reported one death, a Pakistani national, resulting from debris from an aerial interception. Kuwait's national oil company announced a precautionary cut to production.

Amidst escalating regional conflict following a US-Israeli attack on Iran, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan stated the UAE is prepared to confront threats as Iran continues striking Gulf countries hosting US military assets. His comments, made on March 7, 2026, follow attacks within the UAE, including one that resulted in a fatality in Dubai. While Iranian President Pezeshkian initially apologized for strikes on neighboring countries, judiciary chief Ejei contradicted this, asserting Iran will continue "heavy attacks" on areas perceived as aiding the enemy. Despite Pezeshkian's later qualification emphasizing friendly relations, he maintained Iran's right to self-defense, signaling continued tensions in the region.