Zelenskyy publishes Persian-language statement on Iran’s 'predetermined fate'

Zelenskyy said that Ukraine is closely monitoring the escalating situation in Iran, with the Foreign Ministry and intelligence services actively coordinating with international partners. He emphasized that the Iranian people have long stood alone against a regime that has killed tens of thousands of its own citizens and facilitated regional conflicts.

"This regime, which provided Russia with Shahed drones and the technology for their production, has determined its own fate," Zelenskyy said.

He expressed hope that the "U.S. determination" and the resolve of the global community will prove effective in the ongoing crisis.

The U.S.-Israeli Operation

The President's statement follows a massive joint military operation launched on Feb. 28, codenamed Lion's Roar by Israel and Epic Fury by the United States. The campaign targeted senior leadership and military infrastructure across several Iranian cities.

Confirmed outcomes of the operation include:

Leadership Losses: The death of 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was confirmed on March 1 following a strike on his residence. Other high-ranking officials killed include IRGC Commander Mohammad Pakpour and security adviser Ali Shamkhani.

Regional Retaliation: Iran responded with ballistic missile and drone strikes against Israel and several U.S. military bases in Qatar, the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan.

U.S. Casualties: The White House confirmed that three American soldiers died in the ongoing operations.

International support and future outlook

In a related development, the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on March 1 that the UK plans to involve Ukrainian experts to assist Persian Gulf nations in intercepting Iranian-made drones. Starmer noted that Ukraine's extensive experience countering Shahed drones provides unique expertise for regional defense.

U.S. President Donald Trump suggested on March 1 that while he has agreed to potential talks with new Iranian leadership, the military campaign could continue for approximately four weeks.

Meanwhile, Ali Larijani, a representative in Iran's National Security Council, stated on March 2 that Iran refuses any negotiations with the United States.