Zelenskiy Advocates for Joint Maritime Security Mission in the Strait of Hormuz

On April 17, 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy urged for collaborative efforts to establish a mission aimed at ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking during a video conference attended by representatives from 50 countries and chaired by France and Britain, Zelenskiy emphasized the importance of decisive action, stating, "Decisions made regarding Hormuz now will determine how other aggressive actors perceive the possibility of creating problems in other straits and on other fronts."

The Straits Times

Zelenskiy highlighted Ukraine's wartime experience in the Black Sea as a valuable asset for such a mission. He noted that over the past four years of conflict with Russia, Ukraine has successfully executed operations to escort merchant vessels, conduct demining, and defend against aerial attacks. "We have experience in escorting merchant vessels, demining, defending against air attacks and the overall coordination of such operations," he stated. This expertise, he argued, could be instrumental in addressing the security challenges in the Strait of Hormuz, which he described as requiring more than just political solutions.

UsNews and World Report

In his remarks, Zelenskiy pointed out that Ukraine has established security cooperation agreements with several Middle Eastern nations, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. He also mentioned ongoing discussions with Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain to further enhance regional maritime security. "We can also contribute to maritime security," he asserted, indicating Ukraine's readiness to assist other nations in bolstering their defenses against threats, particularly from Russian drones, many of which are reportedly designed in Iran.

UsNews and World Report

While Zelenskiy's call for action received support from various international leaders, some critics have raised concerns about the feasibility and implications of Ukraine's involvement in the Strait of Hormuz. Detractors argue that the complexities of regional politics and existing tensions could complicate Ukraine's efforts and potentially escalate conflicts.

UsNews and World Report

Zelenskiy's statements reflect a broader strategy to leverage Ukraine's military experience in international security contexts. His call for a united front in the Strait of Hormuz underscores the urgency of addressing maritime security challenges in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions.

UsNews and World Report

• "Decisions made regarding Hormuz now will determine how other aggressive actors perceive the possibility of creating problems in other straits and on other fronts." — Volodymyr Zelenskiy, President of Ukraine

The Straits Times

• "We have experience in escorting merchant vessels, demining, defending against air attacks and the overall coordination of such operations." — Volodymyr Zelenskiy, President of Ukraine

The Straits Times

• "We can also contribute to maritime security." — Volodymyr Zelenskiy, President of Ukraine

The Straits Times

This initiative by Zelenskiy marks a significant step in Ukraine's efforts to expand its role in global security matters, particularly in regions where maritime navigation is critical.

The Straits Times