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ConflictUK takes command of post-war multinational force for Ukraine
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The United Kingdom has assumed command of the Multinational Force Ukraine (MNF-U), a coalition of willing nations preparing to support Ukraine after hostilities with Russia end. Lieutenant General Tom Bateman took over from his French counterpart during a handover ceremony in Paris, as part of a planned rotation between the UK and France, which jointly lead the coalition. The MNF-U aims to provide reassurance and help regenerate Ukraine's armed forces, including securing airspace and maritime routes, training, equipment support, and establishing a headquarters in Kyiv. Coalition partners will conduct military exercises in Poland this autumn to test readiness. UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting reaffirmed Britain's steadfast commitment to Ukraine, noting Bateman's extensive military experience.
Source report
The United Kingdom on Friday assumed command of the multinational force being prepared by the so-called coalition of the willing to support Ukraine once hostilities with Russia end.
Lieutenant General Tom Bateman formally took over command of the Multinational Force Ukraine (MNF-U) from his French counterpart during a handover ceremony at the force’s operational headquarters in Paris. The transition is part of a planned rotation between the UK and France, which jointly lead the coalition of the willing in preparing support for Ukraine’s future security.
“Building on the excellent work of my predecessor and his multinational team, we will continue to work closely with our Ukrainian and international partners to prepare a force that will help support a just and lasting peace in Ukraine,” Lieutenant General Bateman said in a statement.
Upcoming Exercises and Force Readiness
The announcement comes as coalition partners prepare military exercises over the coming months to test the force’s readiness to deploy once conditions allow. The first exercise will be held in Poland in the autumn.
MNF-U Responsibilities
The MNF-U is designed to provide both reassurance and support the regeneration of Ukraine’s armed forces after the conflict. Its proposed responsibilities include:
- Helping secure Ukrainian airspace and maritime routes
- Rebuilding the country’s armed forces through training and equipment support
- Establishing a headquarters in Kyiv
Official Response
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said Britain’s commitment to Ukraine remains steadfast and described Lieutenant General Bateman as a distinguished military leader whose appointment will strengthen international efforts to support Ukraine’s future security.
Commander's Background
Bateman’s military career spans more than 30 years, including a stint as commander of the Standing Joint Force Headquarters, a rapidly deployable UK military command capable of responding to crises and conflicts worldwide. He has also served as commander of the British Army’s 1st Division.
Source
EuractivWestern
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UK takes command of post-war multinational force for Ukraine