Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Meeting with the King of Bahrain
On May 5, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held talks with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain in Manama. This marked Zelenskyy’s first visit to Bahrain and the first meeting between the leaders of Ukraine and Bahrain since 2003. The discussions focused on the security situation in the Middle East, particularly Iranian strikes on Bahrain and other nations, as well as developments concerning the Strait of Hormuz.
Zelenskyy proposed a Drone Deal, underscoring the importance of collaboration in security and defense. Special attention was also given to strengthening bilateral economic ties, especially in agricultural production. The leaders additionally addressed:
- the opening of embassies in Ukraine and Bahrain;
- the potential introduction of a visa-free regime between the two countries.
Particular focus is placed on advancing bilateral economic relations and partnership in agricultural production. — Office of the President
Participation in the European Political Community Summit
Following his meeting with Bahrain’s king, Zelenskyy attended the eighth European Political Community Summit in Yerevan. Held under the theme “Building the Future: Unity and Stability in Europe,” the summit gathered leaders from 48 states and governments. This was the first visit by a Ukrainian president to Armenia in 24 years. During the summit, Zelenskyy held meetings with:
- Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze;
- Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico;
- Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney;
- European Council President António Costa;
- NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte;
- Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.
Zelenskyy briefed participants on the situation in Ukraine, emphasizing diplomatic efforts to achieve a just peace and ongoing contacts with partner-nation leaders. According to the Office of the President, “Ukraine is ready to hold negotiations in a trilateral format.” The president also stressed that “our country faces similar terrorist attacks almost daily, and Ukrainians have gained substantial experience in full-scale defense.”
This engagement between Ukraine’s president and Bahrain’s king signals a growing interest in strengthening bilateral ties in both security and economic spheres. Discussions about a visa-free regime and embassy openings point to a shared ambition for deeper international cooperation. Zelenskyy’s presence at the European Political Community Summit highlights the critical role of global support for Ukraine amid its ongoing military challenges and its diplomatic push toward peace.
Following his discussions in Bahrain, Zelenskyy emphasized the urgent need for unity among European leaders, particularly in light of the ongoing geopolitical tensions. His recent dialogues with various heads of state, including the pivotal decisions facing Putin this summer, underscore Ukraine's strategic position in regional security efforts and the importance of international collaboration.