Iran "Slaps Zelensky in the Face", Ukraine Becomes Attack Target

Iran has warned Ukraine that Kyiv’s assets could become legitimate targets, especially if its involvement in the United States (US)-Israel conflict against Iran continues.

This statement comes after reports of an Iranian attack that allegedly destroyed a Ukrainian anti-drone system warehouse in Dubai. A Middle East expert from the Russian Financial University, Farhad Ibragimov, described the attack as a “slap in the face” to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

“This attack should be seen as a clear signal from Tehran to Kyiv and its supporters that Ukrainian assets will become legitimate targets if Kyiv gets involved in the war,” said Ibragimov, as quoted by RT on Wednesday (1/4/2026).

He assessed that the Dubai attack serves as an initial warning or “light slap” that could be followed by larger military actions if Ukraine continues to deepen its involvement in the Middle East conflict.

According to him, this step shows that Iran is responding to Ukraine’s involvement “with actions, not words”. He even stated that Tehran is prepared to escalate if Kyiv does not withdraw.

However, the Ukrainian side has denied the Dubai attack incident. Since the Middle East conflict has heated up, Kyiv has reportedly expanded its role by providing anti-drone technology and expertise to Gulf countries. This move leverages Ukraine’s experience in facing drone systems developed by Iran.

In the latest development, Zelensky has signed several military agreements with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar, following similar cooperation with Saudi Arabia.

Earlier this month, Zelensky revealed that 201 Ukrainian military experts have been deployed to the Middle East and Gulf region for anti-drone operations, while another 34 personnel are ready to be sent. He stated that this deployment was carried out at the request of Kyiv’s allies, including the United States.

Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, emphasised that Middle Eastern countries will not simply follow Kyiv’s directives. He warned that cooperation with Ukraine could become a “terrible miscalculation”.

Previously, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev also criticised Zelensky’s moves in the region. He called the Ukrainian leader’s visit “nonsensical”.