First joint Coalition of the Willing exercises on Ukraine's security begin in Poland

Start of first joint training

From 9 to 22 November, the first military exercises initiated by the countries of the Coalition of the Willing began in Poland. The main objective of these measures is to rehearse scenarios for ensuring Ukraine's security in the post-war period. The French armed forces announced the conduct of the manoeuvres.

Approximately 2,800 servicemen representing 11 states are participating in the exercises. Units from France, Germany, Poland, the United Kingdom, Turkey, and other coalition member countries are involved in the joint work. Both ground forces and aviation are deployed during the training.

Location and main tasks

The Polish city of Nowa Dęba has been chosen as the venue for the manoeuvres. It is located in the south-east of the country, approximately 100 kilometres from the border with Ukraine. The Polish side serves as one of the key platforms for military cooperation among European states and support for Ukraine.

The main task for participants is to rehearse interaction mechanisms between allies and test possible action scenarios following the cessation of hostilities in Ukraine. These manoeuvres allow for an assessment of the readiness of the armed forces of several states to act as a single entity and to develop practical interaction tools within the framework of a potential post-war security system for Ukraine.

Context of negotiations on guarantees

The exercises are taking place against the backdrop of active discussions regarding future security guarantees for Kyiv. Coalition countries are considering various options for their involvement in ensuring a durable peace after the end of the war. Meanwhile, the specific format of these guarantees and the exact role of international forces remain subjects of ongoing negotiations.