First “Shahed” Drone Strikes in Ukraine Conducted by Iranian Operators — Zelenskyy
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the initial attacks in Ukraine using Shahed kamikaze drones were carried out by Iranian operators, who simultaneously trained Russian military personnel to operate the drones.
He made these remarks during a joint media briefing with Romanian President Nicușor Dan.
According to Zelenskyy, at the beginning of the use of these drones, there were no Russian operators involved.
“We know how the first ‘Shaheds’ were launched. There were no Russian operators. Operators from another country — the country from which the ‘Shaheds’ came — were present. They trained the Russians directly during the war,” the president said.
Zelenskyy emphasized that Iran has effectively been an ally of Russia for a long time, providing political support and supplying weapons for the war.
The Ukrainian president also commented on the potential strengthening of U.S. military presence in Romania, noting that it is a sovereign decision of Bucharest. He stressed that as a NATO member, Romania benefits from additional allied forces, which further enhances the country’s security.
“Romania is a NATO member. Any additional forces, especially from the United States, undoubtedly strengthen the country,” he added.
Iranian Shahed strike drones present a significant challenge to U.S. air defense systems. Zelenskyy also noted that Ukraine has sent three expert teams to Middle Eastern countries to work on Shahed-type drones.
