Status of Ukrainians in the Middle East
Following Iran's recent military strike, the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has provided an update on its citizens in the Middle East. Approximately 250,000 Ukrainians are currently in the region. The ministry confirms that, fortunately, none have been reported as casualties due to the recent escalation. Acting on instructions from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the MFA is actively working to provide assistance to Ukrainians there. This large diaspora is present due to work, tourism, and family ties.
Actions by Ukraine's Foreign Ministry
As part of these efforts, some Ukrainians have been successfully relocated to Egypt. The MFA's hotline had received around thirty inquiries by this morning, mostly concerning delayed flights. Andrii Sybiha, a ministry representative, stated:
“As of now, fortunately, there is no information regarding injuries or deaths of Ukrainian citizens due to the worsening security situation. We are aware of the problems with departures in countries where airspace is closed. In all situations, embassies are in contact with citizens, providing necessary consultations.” - Andrii Sybiha
Ukrainian embassies in the region, including those in Israel, the UAE, Iraq, Lebanon, and Iran, have created forms for requesting consular assistance. The Embassy in the UAE has also asked Ukrainian citizens in the UAE and Bahrain to fill out an information registration form. “In total, the MFA hotline had received about three dozen inquiries by this morning, which is not many, mostly related to postponed flights. We are analyzing the development of events and working on all possible scenarios and actions (including evacuation) to ensure the safety of Ukrainian citizens,” added Andrii Sybiha.
To recall, on Saturday, February 28, 2026, an Iranian attack targeted the United Arab Emirates, resulting in civilian casualties and significant damage to major regional airports. The UAE Ministry of Defense confirmed the scale of this attack, during which Iran used an unprecedented amount of weaponry to strike civilian infrastructure and strategic UAE facilities.
The situation in the region remains tense, and the activities of Ukraine's MFA are focused on ensuring the safety and providing aid to Ukrainians in the Middle East. In conflict conditions, it is vital for citizens to have access to consular support and information on evacuation options. The heightened violence underscores the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to protect civilians and de-escalate the situation.