New Zealand extends military assistance to Ukraine
New Zealand is extending its military assistance in support of Ukraine's self-defence until December 2026.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon made the announcement early this morning (NZT) from London.
"New Zealand is unwavering in its support for Ukraine against Russia's illegal and unprovoked invasion," he said.
"That is why we are extending our deployment of up to 100 New Zealand Defence Force personnel to train Ukrainian soldiers in the UK and throughout Europe, and provide intelligence, liaison and logistics support through to December 2026."
Luxon said the announcement signalled New Zealand's ongoing commitment to Ukraine in the fact of Russia's aggression. It brings the total value of the country's support to $152 million in financial assistance and in-kind support, he said.
1News US correspondent Logan Church spoke to Winston Peters about what NZ might do. (Source: 1News)
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters said the situation in Ukraine remained dynamic.
"New Zealand welcomes efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace, and is following the negotiations on a potential ceasefire very closely. New Zealand is also actively involved in the UK-led discussions on options for peace support if the conflict concludes."
Defence Minister Judith Collins said NZDF personnel had been on the ground in Europe working with like-minded partner countries for the past three years.
"This deployment is a visible and highly valued use of our skilled personnel," she said.
"This is what our people train and sign up for. I have seen first hand the value of what they are providing to the people of Ukraine, and I am justifiably proud of New Zealand's contribution."
The efforts of all partners, including New Zealand, in the operation has trained more than 53,000 Ukrainian Armed Forces personnel so far.
Military officials from more than 30 nations, including New Zealand, will take part in Paris talks of an international security force. (Source: 1News)
NZDF personnel will continue to conduct specialised training throughout Europe in combat casualty care, combat engineering, leadership and maritime explosive ordnance disposal training.
Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, New Zealand has pledged $102.3 million for military training, equipment and material, including NZDF personnel deployed to Europe.
It has also pledged $31.9 million in humanitarian assistance to conflict-affected Ukrainian communities and $5.2 million in support for international legal processes and human rights monitoring.
Last year, two packages worth $41.9 million covering extended NZDF deployments, additional sanctions through the Russia Sanctions Act and new funding for military equipment and humanitarian aid.
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