DOHA – In a series of high-profile statements from Qatar, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that Russian satellite intelligence was directly used by Iran to target U.S. and allied military facilities in the Middle East.
Zelensky stated he is “100% certain” that Moscow shared surveillance data with Tehran ahead of a significant missile and drone attack on the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia on March 26, 2026.
Timeline of Surveillance:
According to Ukrainian intelligence briefings, Russian satellites captured images of strategic locations “in the interests of Iran” over three consecutive days:
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March 24: Imaging of the Diego Garcia (US-UK) facility, Kuwait International Airport, and the Greater Burgan oil field.
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March 25: Repeated imaging of the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia.
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March 26: Imaging of the Al Udeid Air Base (Qatar), İncirlik Air Base (Türkiye), and the Shaybah oil field.
Strategic Implications:
Zelensky warned that “repeated reconnaissance indicates preparations for strikes,” noting that the Prince Sultan Air Base was photographed on March 20, 23, and 25 before being hit. The March 26 attack reportedly injured 10 to 15 U.S. service members and damaged several aircraft, including a high-value E-3 Sentry AWACS.
The Ukrainian leader used the platform to criticize the recent easing of international sanctions on Russian oil, arguing that the revenue is being used to fund an “aggressor” that is now actively undermining Western security interests in the Gulf.
