Ukraine Joins The JEF Defense Alliance
- 5.11.2025, 14:54
And became the first state that is not part of the union, but received such a status.
Ukraine has received the status of an extended partner of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF). This is the first state that is not a member of the association, but has received such a status.
It was reported by RBC-Ukraine with reference to Defense Minister Denis Shmygal in Telegram.
"I am grateful to Norwegian Defense Minister Tora Sandvik and British Defense Minister John Gili for the invitation. Thanks to the initiative of President Vladimir Zelensky Ukraine is represented for the first time at the meeting of defense ministers of JEF member countries - this is a historic moment," Shmygal noted.
He stressed that Ukraine is ready to strengthen JEF capabilities and share its experience in countering hybrid aggression, using air defense, using drones, protecting critical infrastructure and conducting long-range strikes.
"We plan the participation of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in joint exercises to achieve full compatibility and readiness to act together in crisis situations," the Defense Minister added.
Smygal said Ukraine will continue to contribute to common security through joint exercises, innovative partnerships and cooperation in the defense industry. At the same time, Kiev is counting on access to European technologies and production facilities to create joint defense projects.
"I am grateful to Norway for organizing the meeting, to the UK for its leadership, and to all JEF participants for their unwavering support. Together we strengthen Europe's security and protect the world for future generations," summarized Denis Shmygal.
What the JEF is
The status of "extended partner" of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) means deeper cooperation with this defense alliance, which includes 10 northern European states led by Great Britain.
This partnership format allows Kiev to participate in joint exercises, intelligence sharing, security and defense coordination, and strengthens Ukraine's integration into the collective defense system of the Nordic countries.
JEF is designed to respond quickly to crises, particularly in the Baltic and North Seas, the Arctic and the North Atlantic. The alliance operates outside NATO but complements its capabilities by focusing on flexible and rapid operations in the region. Ukraine's attainment of "extended partner" status demonstrates the confidence of the JEF states and is another step toward deeper integration into the European security system.