Zelensky warns over Russian satellite surveillance of U.S. and allied bases

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has raised concerns over what he described as increased Russian satellite surveillance of U.S. and allied military facilities across the Middle East and Gulf region, warning that such activity underscores ongoing security threats and questions surrounding international sanctions policy.

According to the statement, Zelensky said that intelligence updates he receives while travelling outside Ukraine indicate that Russian satellites have been used to capture imagery of strategic installations, allegedly in connection with Iranian interests.

He outlined a series of reported reconnaissance activities over several days:

On March 24, satellite imaging was said to include the joint U.S.–UK facility at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, as well as Kuwait International Airport and infrastructure linked to the Greater Burgan oil field.

On March 25, the reported surveillance included Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia. A day later, on March 26, additional imaging allegedly covered the Shaybah oil field, İncirlik Air Base, and Al Udeid Air Base.

Zelensky emphasized that none of the identified locations are connected to Ukraine, arguing instead that the pattern reflects broader geopolitical tensions and potential coordination of intelligence activity.

He questioned whether easing sanctions on Russia was appropriate under current circumstances, stating that reconnaissance operations against military and energy infrastructure suggest preparation for potential future strikes.

“There must be sustained pressure on the aggressor,” he said in his remarks, warning that lifting sanctions while alleged intelligence-gathering continues against Western and regional facilities appears inconsistent with security objectives.