Ukrainian Ambassador: Ready to Supply Kuwait with Drones
The Ukrainian Ambassador to Kuwait, Dr. Maksym Subh, affirmed that his country views Kuwait not only as an important partner in the Gulf region, but also as a friendly state sharing a deep understanding of the values of sovereignty and independence. He noted that Ukraine greatly appreciates Kuwait’s steadfast position supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and international law. This statement was made during a press conference held at the embassy premises on the occasion of the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence and the 33rd anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Subh stated that the entry into force of the military cooperation agreement between Kuwait and Ukraine opens the door for both countries to establish a unique and comprehensive defense partnership. He pointed out that the recently activated military cooperation agreement allows for the potential supply of drones to Kuwait, alongside training personnel, implementing joint defense projects, and providing necessary expertise and consultations to enhance the capabilities of the Kuwaiti Armed Forces in confronting current security challenges.
He added that his country is pleased with the entry into force of the military cooperation agreement, signed in 2018, expressing gratitude to the Kuwaiti government for completing the required legal procedures in this regard.
Clarifying the scope of cooperation, Subh explained that both sides have begun coordinating on military and defense cooperation. He emphasized that the concept of defense cooperation is broader than mere military collaboration, noting that the agreement covers numerous important areas and provides a legal framework enabling both countries to enter into a “genuine, unique partnership that benefits both nations.”
He stressed that the objective of the cooperation is not limited to marketing or selling Ukrainian military products, including drones, but rather aims at building an integrated defense cooperation system encompassing personnel training, joint military and defense projects, joint planning, and coordination between the general staffs of the Kuwaiti and Ukrainian armies.
Regarding the potential supply of drones to Kuwait, Subh confirmed that the Ukrainian government is capable and ready to do so, particularly given the tensions in the region and the security developments that necessitate strengthening defense capabilities. He noted that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has affirmed from the outset his country’s full solidarity with Kuwait and other Gulf states, adding that Ukraine believes the security challenges facing its country and those in the region require increased coordination and cooperation.
He continued, “Our destiny is one, and we face similar and comparable challenges. We must take coordinated steps between our two countries to confront these challenges effectively,” highlighting the importance of cooperation in protecting civilian lives and infrastructure from attacks.
Addressing the issue of aggression, Subh said, “Today, Ukraine stands firmly alongside Kuwait in confronting Iran’s unjust aggression, a position previously expressed officially on numerous occasions. We support and back all efforts undertaken by Kuwait and its Gulf brothers to restore security and stability to the region, safeguarding innocent lives and ensuring the continuation of development, prosperity, and growth for all countries in the region.”
He indicated that his country hopes the coming years will mark a new phase in Kuwait-Ukraine relations, emphasizing the availability of significant potential to expand cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, food security, agriculture, energy, technology, advanced industries, defense, education, culture, and tourism.
