Poland Launches First Military Exercises of the Coalition of the Willing with 2,800 Troops

As reported by Ukrainska Pravda citing DPA, the first military exercises of the "coalition of the willing" in support of Ukraine begin on Monday in Poland, involving 2,800 service members from eleven countries. Poland serves as the primary host of the maneuvers, while the French and British defense ministries lead the Koalicja 2026 exercises, which will run through November 22.

Objectives and Scope of Koalicja 2026

The primary goal of the drills is to test mechanisms for ensuring lasting peace after the war ends, according to the defense ministries of France and the UK. The "coalition of the willing" was founded in early 2025 to support Ukraine, and the decision to form multinational forces was made in December at a summit in Berlin.

• Germany's armed forces (Bundeswehr) are contributing approximately ten staff officers, refueling aircraft, and logistical support.
• The UK is deploying around 300 personnel and several fighter jets, based on its own statements.
• France is providing roughly 1,000 soldiers, short-range surveillance drones, and counter-drone systems.
• British sources indicate the exercises will simulate troop deployment and the transport of critical resources like food and fuel.

Broad International Context and Diplomatic Agenda

Participant nations also include Belgium, Estonia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, and Sweden. In total, the coalition of the willing encompasses approximately 35 states.

The diplomatic calendar features a high-level meeting in Berlin on November 19, where German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Additionally, the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in the Ramstein format will meet on November 17 at NATO headquarters in Brussels.

On November 19, Berlin will host a meeting of the coalition featuring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.