Russian war of aggression: US defense companies are allowed to deploy personnel in Ukraine

The Pentagon allows private US defense companies to deploy limited personnel in Ukraine. The tender for these contracts is currently underway, a representative of the US Department of Defense confirmed to the German Press Agency. “These contractors will be far from the front lines and will not fight against Russian forces,” the representative emphasized. “They will help the Ukrainian Armed Forces quickly repair and maintain U.S.-supplied equipment as needed so that it can be quickly returned to the front lines.”

The background to the step is the necessary technical expertise for the maintenance of complex weapons systems such as F-16 fighter jets and Patriot air defense systems, the representative explained. The decision was made after careful risk assessment and in consultation with the parties involved. Companies applying for the contracts would have to submit safety plans to reduce risks.

According to a report by CNN, the US government has lifted a de facto ban. The ministry representative noted that “numerous different US companies” already employ staff in Ukraine under existing contracts – including to help maintain the Ukrainian power grid. The new measure will therefore not lead to a significant increase in the US presence.

With Donald Trump’s election victory, future US support for Ukraine is uncertain. Since the start of the Russian war of aggression in February 2022, they have been the country’s most important arms supplier. Incumbent President Joe Biden had always assured that support would continue as long as necessary to deter Russian aggression. Trump, who takes office on January 20th, announced a quick end to the war. He hasn’t said yet how he wants to achieve this.