Three Musketeers

While President Obama denies sending aid in the form of arms to Ukraine, NATO is beefing up naval forces in the Black Sea, and Russia increases the number of troops stationed in Crimea. 

Because of the escalating instability in the region caused by Russian aggression and threats by Putin that he could move his troops into 5 neighboring Eastern Europe countries; Poland, Lithuania and Ukraine have sealed a deal to form a joint military force which is expected to hold its first drill next year.

Photo of Polish Troops: Reuters/Roman Baluk

Polish defense officials told Reuters that LITPOLUKRBRIG (Lithuanian–Polish–Ukrainian Brigade) could take part in peacekeeping operations or, if necessary, form the basis of a NATO battle group in the region with headquarters in Lublin, Poland not far from the Ukraine border. 


While Lithuania and Poland are NATO members, Ukraine’s recent appeal for a special status outside the bloc was turned down by US President Barack Obama. 

Polish President Komorowski said the deal proves the tree nation's commitment to security in the region, but regretted the brigade was not formed sooner and that the new unit will have to make up for lost time.

The newly formed military unit is predicted to have about 4,000 soldiers with over 75% wearing the Polish insignia. 


According to Polish TVN21 channel, the subunits forming the brigade will remain in their home countries and will only get together for exercises and military missions.