Zelensky explains why he did not visit Israel during his Middle East tour

According to a Ukrinform correspondent, the president made this statement during a press conference, responding to a question about why Israel was not included in the tour itinerary.

“I had no contact with Israel, neither by phone nor at the expert level,” Zelensky said.

He noted that negotiations with their leaders preceded trips to the Middle East.

"We agreed at our level on how to proceed, after which our expert group traveled there. And after the expert assessment was prepared, I set out on this tour. I met with the leaders, and agreements had already been prepared, forming the basis for our communication with them," Zelensky added.

As reported by Ukrinform, the President of Ukraine visited Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Jordan.

In particular, Ukraine agreed with Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, on a mutually beneficial defense-sector partnership for at least 10 years. A similar agreement was also concluded with Saudi Arabia.

Photo: Office of the President