Zelensky said Kyiv had deployed several hundred military specialists to the Middle East following the outbreak of conflict involving Iran, aiming to share its experience in countering drone threats and safeguarding maritime routes.

“Ukrainian military personnel are taking part in consultations on the further operation of the Strait of Hormuz. Safe navigation is a global value; we know this from our experience defending the Black Sea,” Zelensky said in his evening address.

Ukraine has relied on asymmetric tactics and technological innovations during its war with Russia, including the use of naval drones, to counter attempts to restrict access to the Black Sea, a critical corridor for its economy and military operations.

Zelensky said interest in Ukraine’s defense capabilities is expanding beyond Europe, with diplomats receiving requests from Asian countries seeking cooperation on maritime security and related technologies.He did not identify the countries involved but said officials had been instructed to engage on the requests promptly.

Ukraine’s participation in Hormuz-related discussions reflects growing international focus on securing key maritime chokepoints amid ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting global energy and trade flows.

The phone call covered evolving political and security situations across the region, with both sides emphasising the importance of dialogue, de-escalation, and cooperation to maintain regional stability. Officials highlighted the longstanding strategic partnership between Saudi Arabia and the United States as a foundation for addressing shared challenges.

Prince Faisal also conducted separate calls with Oman’s Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al-Busaidi and Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. These discussions underscored Saudi Arabia’s active diplomatic outreach and its role as a key regional interlocutor amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.

According to official statements, the conversations focused on developments affecting regional security, diplomatic initiatives aimed at reducing tensions, and coordination on political solutions to ongoing conflicts. The talks come at a time when the Middle East faces multiple overlapping crises requiring sustained diplomatic engagement.

Saudi Arabia has increasingly positioned itself as a hub for regional dialogue, hosting talks and maintaining open communication channels with regional and international partners. Analysts note that Riyadh’s engagement with Washington, Ankara, and Muscat reflects a broader strategy of balanced diplomacy.

The exchange with the US secretary of state reaffirmed mutual commitments to consultation on issues such as regional security architecture, freedom of navigation, and responses to humanitarian challenges. Both sides reportedly agreed on the need for continued coordination as situations evolve.

Prince Faisal’s conversation with the Omani foreign minister highlighted the close ties between the two Gulf neighbours and their shared interest in promoting stability through diplomacy. Oman has long played a mediating role in regional disputes, making coordination with Muscat strategically significant.

Meanwhile, discussions with Türkiye’s foreign minister focused on broader regional developments, including conflict resolution efforts and political transitions in parts of the Middle East. Saudi-Turkish relations have seen renewed engagement in recent years, particularly on regional security and economic cooperation.

Diplomatic observers say the flurry of calls indicates intensified regional diplomacy as governments seek to manage risks stemming from ongoing conflicts, energy security concerns, and shifting alliances. Saudi Arabia’s outreach signals an effort to align positions and avoid escalation.

The Saudi foreign minister’s engagements also reflect the kingdom’s emphasis on multilateral dialogue rather than unilateral action. By engaging with diverse partners, Riyadh aims to contribute to consensus-building and coordinated responses.

Regional developments discussed are believed to include political negotiations, security conditions, and humanitarian considerations, though officials did not disclose specific details. Such discretion is common in high-level diplomatic communications.

Saudi Arabia has consistently stated that political solutions and dialogue remain the most effective means of resolving regional disputes. The latest talks reinforce this stance and demonstrate continued diplomatic momentum.

As global attention remains focused on the Middle East, sustained communication between key regional and international actors is seen as essential to prevent further instability. Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic activity positions it as a central player in shaping regional responses.

Officials are expected to maintain close contact in the coming weeks as developments continue to unfold. The discussions highlight the importance of proactive diplomacy in navigating a complex and rapidly changing regional landscape.