Ukraine, Qatar Sign 10-Year Defense Partnership

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a new long-term defense partnership with Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani following high-level talks in Doha, marking a significant expansion of military and strategic cooperation between the two countries.

Zelenskyy said the discussions focused on strengthening efforts to protect lives and enhance security in both nations. He confirmed that the two sides agreed on a defense partnership expected to last at least ten years.

Following the meeting, senior military officials from both countries signed an agreement covering joint defense projects, including cooperation in military industries, the establishment of shared production facilities, and the development of technological partnerships between companies.

In a statement shared on social media, Zelenskyy provided an update on the ongoing security situation in Ukraine, highlighting continued Russian attacks and what he described as close cooperation between Russia and Iran. He stressed that strengthening air defense systems remains a top priority for Kyiv, emphasizing the importance of support from international partners.

Zelenskyy also expressed appreciation for the Emir of Qatar’s hospitality and willingness to deepen cooperation, noting that the agreements reached represent concrete progress in bilateral relations.

Separately, Qatari officials confirmed that Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani held meetings with senior Ukrainian officials, including National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov and Armed Forces Chief of Staff Andriy Hnatov during their visit.

The two sides signed a defense cooperation agreement between the Qatari and Ukrainian ministries of defense, covering technological collaboration, joint project development, defense investments, and the exchange of expertise in countering missiles and drones.