„Koalition der Willigen“: Was es mit dem Manöver der Ukraine-Koalition auf sich hat

A coalition of willing nations, known as the "Koalition der Willigen," is conducting its first military exercise called "Koalicja 2026" in Poland, Romania's airspace, and the western Black Sea. The five-day drill, which began today and continues until November 22nd, involves around 2,800 soldiers from eleven countries, including the Bundeswehr, to test how a lasting peace could be secured after the Ukraine war.

The coalition, founded in early 2025 to aid Ukraine, currently comprises approximately 35 countries that provide weapons, humanitarian, and financial support to Ukraine. In December 2025, the group decided to form a multinational force to secure a potential ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia. French President Emmanuel Macron declared the force ready for combat in mid-July and announced initial maneuvers in Ukraine's neighboring countries for the autumn.

Germany only agreed to participate after initial hesitation, but the German contribution's specifics remain unclear. The Bundeswehr will provide up to two A400M transport aircraft for aerial refueling during the exercise, operated from Germany, and assist in troop relocation to the training area with logistical support. Germany stands out as the hub for troop movements towards the east.

Britain plans to send around 300 military personnel and several fighter jets, while France will contribute about 1,000 troops, using short-range surveillance drones and anti-drone systems. Belgium, Estonia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, and Sweden are also part of the coalition. The exercise aims to simulate soldier deployment, the transport of supplies like food and fuel, and the use of fighter jets to secure civil aviation after the reopening of Ukrainian airspace.

Turkish forces will rehearse clearing sea mines to help resume trade for Ukrainian ports. Russia criticizes the multinational force, stating that its presence in Ukraine would be a "de facto military intervention" and pose additional threats to Russia's security.