Expensive missile interceptors are unlikely to be a solution: “Shaheeds” are cheap, there are many of them, and Iran is actively using them.
Cheap interceptor drones are becoming a significant strategic trump card for Ukraine in its interaction with the US. They not only increase operational security, but also open up new opportunities for production, investment, and the development of trade relations with the countries of the Middle East, notes diplomat, extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassador of Ukraine to the Republic of Belarus (2010–2011) Roman Bezsmertny. This is reported by Comments.ua, the PromPolitInform portal reports.
“We remember how Trump constantly said that Zelensky lacks cards, trump cards, and so on. But the topic of security, and drone interceptors precisely meet the need for security, gives Zelensky a trump card, in particular in communicating with Donald Trump. And here it is very important to play these trump cards correctly,” Bezsmertny emphasized.
He added that this is a truly powerful argument, because expensive missile interceptors are unlikely to solve the problem. “Shaheeds” are very cheap, there are a lot of them, and Iran is increasingly using them. Therefore, the argument with cheap interceptors is a very serious trump card, primarily in the dialogue with the USA,” says Bezsmertny.
According to the diplomat, the first Pentagon representatives arrived in Kyiv specifically for drone interceptors. Later, guests from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and Oman showed interest, which became the first weighty argument in diplomatic contacts.
“The second very important argument is the possibility of producing these drones and spreading the technology. There is no point in importing them from Ukraine or Europe. There is an opportunity and a need to manufacture them directly on site, given that technologies will change,” Bezsmertny explained.
He emphasized that local drone production contributes to profits, attracting investment and strengthening influence, as well as establishing stable trade relations.
“The demand for security will grow in the modern world regardless of the development of the situation in the Middle East. This opens up new opportunities for cooperation and strengthening Ukraine’s position as part of Europe,” the diplomat concluded.
