Zelensky hints at possible Ukrainian sea drone deployment in the Strait of Hormuz
KYIV, UKRAINE: Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has floated the possibility of deploying Ukrainian sea drones in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, as escalating regional conflict disrupts global energy flows.
In an audio message shared with journalists, Zelensky referred to the “possible use of Ukrainian sea-drones in the Strait of Hormuz” as part of broader defence arrangements under discussion with Middle Eastern partners.
“We raised this issue because it is a pressing and sensitive matter for the entire world, given the current energy crisis,” he said, adding that allies in the region “can count on our expertise” in maritime drone operations.
Ukraine offers maritime security support
Zelensky highlighted Ukraine’s experience in using naval drones, particularly in the Black Sea, where Ukrainian forces have targeted Russian vessels and helped reopen key shipping lanes.
Arab leaders, he said, recognise Kyiv’s success in securing the Black Sea corridor and are open to cooperation in other sensitive waterways. However, he noted that the United States remains the primary actor managing the situation in the Gulf, with Ukraine ready to assist if required.
Hormuz disruption fuels global concerns
The remarks come amid heightened tensions following US-Israeli strikes on Iran since late February, and subsequent Iranian retaliation that has effectively choked traffic through the narrow strait between Iran and Oman.
The disruption has sent oil prices higher and raised concerns over global supply chains, including food security, given the waterway’s critical role in transporting roughly a fifth of the world’s oil.
Zelensky’s comments follow a landmark defence agreement signed between Ukraine and Saudi Arabia, signalling Kyiv’s growing strategic outreach in the Middle East.
The proposed deployment of sea drones underscores Ukraine’s effort to leverage its wartime innovations into broader security partnerships, even as the conflict at home continues.
