White House Denies Ukrainian Drone Defense Offer

0:00On March 10, the White House is pushing back hard against reports that the Trump administration turned down a Ukrainian offer last August for cheap, technology to take down Iranian attack drones. Ukrainian officials pitched battle-tested interceptors during an August 18 meeting at the White House with President Trump and top aides. The idea was to set up drone defense hubs near U.S. bases and share low-cost systems Ukraine has used effectively against similar threats. Earlier this week, sources claimed the decision was a big mischance, especially as Iranian drone strikes ramped up in the Middle East conflict. Starting late February, these Shahed drones cost just $20,000 to $50,000 each, but challenge pricey U.S. defenses. Still, officials say American and ally forces have shot down most incoming attacks. The administration insists the story is off-base, crediting solid planning by defense secretary Pete Hexeth and the military for successes like Operation Epic Fury.

1:01They note Iranian retaliation has dropped sharply thanks to strikes on Tehran's missile sites. So far, the drones have caused seven U.S. service member deaths, well below worst-case fears. Ukraine built its know-how fighting thousands of these drones from Russia, using jamming, guns, and their own interceptors. Recently, as attacks surged, the U.S. asked for help, and Kiev sent drones plus experts to protect bases in Jordan. Now, Washington is rolling out its own Marov's drone defense system, and speeding up counter-drone tech across the region to stay ahead of threats from. Iran, Russia, and others.