Zelenskyy: U.S. and Israeli Strikes on Iran Are a Just Response for Supplying Russia with 'Shahed' Drones

Address by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy

According to Главком: On February 28, 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivered an address concerning the escalating conflict in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf. He stated that Iran's provision of weapons to Russia has directly fueled the war in Ukraine, with Russia having deployed over 57,000 Iranian-made 'Shahed' attack drones against Ukrainian targets since the full-scale invasion began. This statement came as the United States and Israel launched strikes against Iran that same Saturday.

Ukraine's Stance on the Conflict

Zelenskyy emphasized that events in the region are unfolding rapidly and that Ukraine understands such aggression all too well. He noted that the Iranian regime chose to become an accomplice for Vladimir Putin's Russia by supplying it not only with 'Shahed' drones but also with the related technologies, remarking:

'We are now witnessing events in the Middle East and the Gulf region unfolding with extreme speed. Unfortunately, Ukraine knows exactly what this is about. While Ukrainians have never threatened Iran, the Iranian regime itself chose to be Putin's accomplice, supplying him with 'Shaheds'-not just the drones themselves, but also the technologies.' Volodymyr Zelenskyy

The retaliatory strikes on Iran resulted in explosions from intercepted Iranian missiles occurring in several regional countries, including Qatar. In this context, Zelenskyy expressed support for the Iranian people, stating:

'Therefore, it is just to give the Iranian people a chance to rid themselves of the terrorist regime, to eliminate it and ensure security for all nations that have suffered from terror originating from Iran.' Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Zelenskyy's address reflects Ukraine's deep concern over the weapons pipeline sustaining Russia's war effort and underscores the critical need for international solidarity against state-sponsored aggression. This regional escalation highlights how interconnected global security threats have become, with Iranian drones used against Ukrainian cities now linking conflicts in Europe and the Middle East. Ukraine's position could prove significant in shaping a broader international coalition against threats emanating from Iran, as the tense situation there carries serious potential consequences for worldwide security.