Leaders of Ukraine's Maritime Guard, part of the State Border Guard Service, met the Swedish Coast Guard's management group in Stockholm in late September. They shared experience from twelve years of war since Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014.
According to the Coast Guard, the Ukrainian Maritime Guard had prepared for conventional warfare. The 2022 full-scale invasion overturned those plans, and the Ukrainian navy took operational command of the service.
Rear Admiral Oleh Kostur described constant rapid adjustments and entirely new tasks. He also covered the effects of sustained attack, from staff mental health to vessel maintenance and logistics. In heightened readiness or war, Swedish Coast Guard personnel and equipment can likewise be used by the Armed Forces.
– It was interesting to hear how the Maritime Guard prioritises the missions it receives from the navy and, as far as possible, carries out its other coast guard duties at the same time, said Deputy Director General Henrik Jonsson.
Cooperation began in 2024 under a government assignment. The Coast Guard has donated vehicles, protective equipment and spare parts, and trained Ukrainian personnel in both countries. Boats and vessels will also be donated.