Zelensky has brokered closer ties with several states in the Gulf amid the US-Israeli war with Iran, striking defence deals — including with Riyadh — to share Kyiv’s expertise in downing drones, gained through fending off over four years of Russian attacks.

Zelensky said on social media he had held a “very productive meeting with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia,” posting a photo of them meeting in an ornate wood-panelled room.

He said the countries were developing ties across three areas — “the export of Ukrainian security expertise and capabilities in air defense,” energy and food security.

During his visit last month, Zelensky said the two sides had “reached an important arrangement” on air defence.

The deal envisaged a decade-long deal on security cooperation, including establishing joint production lines, he said.

Kyiv has dispatched dozens of military specialists and drone interceptors to several countries in the region, where they were used to shoot down incoming Iranian drones.

It touts its anti-drone defences as the best in the world.

Saudi Arabia has maintained good relations with both Kyiv and Moscow, and has also hosted talks with US officials searching for an end to the Russian invasion.