Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the global significance of events in the Middle East, highlighting their impact on world markets and the standard of living in various countries. According to the head of state, the technological challenges arising during modern conflicts require an immediate and effective response from the international community.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Blocking of the Strait of Hormuz: Parallels with the Ukrainian Experience
Volodymyr Zelensky drew a parallel between the blocking of the Strait of Hormuz, which occurred after the outbreak of war in the Middle East, and the obstruction of shipping in the Black Sea in 2022, when Russia attempted to block Ukrainian ports. He stressed that such actions have a significant impact on global security and the economy, and no country should be left to face such challenges alone.
“The blocking of normal shipping in the Strait of Hormuz is essentially the same challenge that we faced in Ukraine in 2022 when Russia tried to block our ports and access to the sea—only on a more dangerous scale. No nation should be left alone to deal with terrorist attacks.”
According to reports, Iranian authorities blocked the Strait of Hormuz almost immediately after the conflict in the Middle East began. This maritime route is crucial for the export of oil and liquefied natural gas: it accounts for about one-fifth of the world’s total maritime oil exports (approximately 20 million barrels per day). The blockade has led to a significant increase in oil prices, and at the end of March, Iran announced the introduction of tariffs for passage through the strait.
Ukraine Intensifies Cooperation with Middle Eastern Countries
The President reported that Ukraine is strengthening cooperation with countries in the region, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Jordan. Contacts are also being established with Bahrain, Kuwait, and Iraq. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov reported on planned work with countries outside this region, including Turkey and other states that have significant potential for enhancing security.
Zelensky noted that thanks to the efforts of Ukrainian military expertise and the use of modern interception means, several long-term agreements on mutual cooperation have already been achieved. Ukraine is also preparing new solutions to guarantee collective security and continues political dialogue with partners who are facing attacks from the Iranian regime.
The President of Ukraine thanked everyone who is actively participating in the coordination and development of new formats for ensuring collective security in the face of global challenges.