Zelensky names key risks for Ukraine stemming from war in Middle East

He stated this in an interview with Rai Italia, Ukrinform reports.

"There are also concerns due to signals from the United States, both public and unofficial, indicating that this military operation in the Middle East will continue and that, in this regard, they will count on additional air defense systems for themselves and their allies. They will also be carefully reviewing the production capacity for PAC-2 and PAC-3 – interceptor missiles for the Patriot system. In other words, the concern is that if the war is prolonged, America may reduce its deliveries of air defense systems and missiles to Ukraine," Zelensky said.

At the same time, he noted that everyone in Europe and around the world is experiencing an energy crisis due to rising oil prices. However, according to Zelensky, Ukraine's energy crisis is primarily linked to Russia's war.

"But it is also clear that imports of oil products have been reduced or fully blocked due to the hostilities. This is already affecting global energy prices. It is a challenge, and I believe all countries will be working to address it," he said.

Zelensky also pointed out that the Iranian regime had supplied weapons to Russia. Now, he said, this concern has slightly decreased because Iran is unlikely to be able to send anything to Russia at the moment.

"However, at one point they transferred licenses, and Russia is now producing those missiles and drones on its own under Iranian licenses," he reminded.

Previously, Zelensky emphasized the importance of ensuring that the opportunity for change in Iran is used correctly.

On February 28, the U.S. and Israel carried out joint strikes on Iranian regime targets. Following this, Iran attacked U.S. bases in Kuwait, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Jordan.

Later, the IRNA news agency confirmed that Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed on the morning of February 28.

Photo: Office of the President