According to a summary of Ukrainian intelligence provided by Zelenskyy, Russian satellites photographed Prince Sultan Air Base on March 20, March 23 and March 25. Iran struck the base on March 26, injuring multiple U.S. service members, though none of the injuries were reported as life-threatening.
“I think that it’s in Russia’s interest to help Iranians. And I don’t believe — I know — that they share information,” Zelenskyy said. “Do they help Iranians? Of course. How many percent? One-hundred percent.”
Zelenskyy said repeated satellite imaging indicated preparation for an attack based on Ukraine’s experience. “We know that if they make images once, they are preparing. If they make images a second time, it’s like a simulation. The third time it means that in one or two days, they will attack,” he said.
The intelligence summary did not include evidence of the imagery and NBC News could not independently verify the claims. Russia has denied providing intelligence to Iran, though Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov acknowledged military cooperation between the two countries.
Zelenskyy made the remarks during a visit to Qatar, where he was seeking defence agreements with Gulf states. He said Ukraine had signed deals with Saudi Arabia and Qatar involving the transfer of technical expertise in exchange for “billions” of dollars in investment.
“They recognize our expertise,” he said, referring to Ukraine’s experience in countering Iranian-made drones used by Russia. He added that Ukraine’s defence technologies were in demand among countries facing similar threats.
Zelenskyy also warned against diverting U.S. missile interceptors from Ukraine to the Middle East amid ongoing conflict with Iran. “I’m very worried. I hope that the United States will not make such mistakes,” he said.
He said continued Western military support remained critical to Ukraine’s defence against Russia. The Ukrainian leader added that any disruption in arms deliveries could have serious consequences for Kyiv.
Zelenskyy said Russian President Vladimir Putin stood to benefit from a prolonged conflict in the Middle East. “[Putin] has benefits, a lot of benefits, of this war,” he said.
“If sanctions are lifted, [Putin] will get more money, much more money, and he will put this money to weapons,” he added. He also said the conflict had slowed diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
Zelenskyy said Ukraine remained open to negotiations in neutral locations but ruled out talks in Russia or Belarus. “We will never be the side who is blocking or delaying or postponing, etc. And that’s why we are ready to meet everywhere except Russia and Belarus — they are allies and they are enemies,” he said.
Asked about U.S. policy, Zelenskyy said he hoped Washington remained committed to Ukraine’s future. “I hope so,” he said.
Source: NBC News.
