New Zealand Joins NATO-Backed Training Mission for Ukrainian Forces in Poland

New Zealand has expanded its military support for Ukraine by joining a new multinational training initiative in Poland aimed at strengthening the capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine as the war with Russia continues.

Defence Minister Chris Penk confirmed that New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel will deploy to Poland as part of Operation LEGIO, a multinational military training mission led by Norway and supported by several European partner nations.

The deployment marks the latest phase of New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to supporting Ukraine following Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.

New Zealand Reaffirms Support for Ukraine

Minister Penk said New Zealand remains firmly committed to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and defence against what he described as Russia’s illegal and unprovoked invasion.

“New Zealand remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine as it defends itself against Russia’s illegal and unprovoked full-scale invasion,” he said.

According to the Minister, the outcome of the conflict has security implications far beyond Europe and could also affect stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

“The defence of Ukraine, its interests, and its values has significant security implications far beyond Europe, including in our Indo-Pacific region,” Mr Penk stated.

The Government says New Zealand’s participation reflects its broader commitment to international security, rules-based order, and cooperation with allied nations.

Operation LEGIO Brings Together Multiple Nations

Operation LEGIO is a multinational training initiative involving military personnel from Norway, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Sweden, and Ukraine.

Poland is expected to play a central role in the operation due to its strategic location bordering Ukraine and its position as a major logistical hub for military assistance and humanitarian support flowing into the country.

The mission also strengthens NATO’s eastern defensive posture as tensions with Russia remain high across Eastern Europe.

Under the initiative, participating nations will work together to provide training, operational support, and military expertise to Ukrainian personnel closer to Ukraine’s borders.

Shift from Operation INTERFLEX

The new deployment follows New Zealand’s earlier involvement in Operation INTERFLEX, a United Kingdom-led multinational training mission launched in 2022.

Under Operation INTERFLEX, NZDF personnel trained thousands of Ukrainian soldiers in the UK, focusing on infantry skills, battlefield readiness, and military leadership.

Minister Penk said New Zealand has adapted its contribution as Ukraine’s military requirements evolve.

“As Ukraine’s needs change and they request training takes place closer to their borders, we have adapted our contribution to ensure it remains effective, relevant and aligned with our international partners,” he said.

The Government says the move to Poland will allow New Zealand personnel to continue providing specialised military instruction while remaining closely coordinated with allied countries supporting Ukraine.

NZDF Personnel Praised for Professionalism

Minister Penk said New Zealand’s military contribution has earned strong recognition from both Ukraine and partner nations involved in the training missions.

“New Zealand’s contribution to Ukraine is highly valued and makes a tangible difference,” he said.

“Our personnel are highly regarded by Ukraine and partner nations for their expertise and professionalism.”

The deployment in Poland will operate as part of Operation TĪEKE, the NZDF’s broader mission supporting Ukraine.

Officials say the NZDF will continue delivering high-quality military training alongside Norwegian-led forces and other international partners participating in Operation LEGIO.

Ongoing International Support for Ukraine

Since the beginning of the war, New Zealand has contributed military personnel, humanitarian aid, sanctions against Russia, and financial support to international assistance efforts for Ukraine.

The conflict has triggered one of the largest international security responses in recent decades, with countries across Europe, North America, and the Indo-Pacific providing varying forms of support to Ukraine.

Military training missions have become increasingly important as Ukraine seeks to strengthen its armed forces and sustain long-term defence operations.

The New Zealand Government says continued international cooperation remains essential to supporting Ukraine’s defence and maintaining global security stability.

The latest deployment to Poland signals New Zealand’s intention to remain actively engaged alongside international allies as the conflict continues.