A major reform is underway within the military structure of the North Atlantic Alliance, set to change the logic of support for Kyiv. The Pentagon is officially stepping down from leading the Security Assistance Group (SAG), which is based in Germany. This structure coordinates all military aid to Ukraine, from logistics to training.
Who is taking the reins?
According to information obtained from US officials and insiders, command of the group will ultimately pass to another NATO member. The transition of command may take up to a year, however, sources assure that current work on equipping and training Ukrainian forces will not be interrupted for a single day.
It is important to note that the US will not exit the process entirely. As reported by Politico, US European Command will remain involved in the program through its deputy, but key decisions will no longer be made in Washington.
Why is Washington stepping back from leadership?
This decision aligns with a general trend in recent years, where the US has gradually transferred command within NATO to European countries. For the Security Assistance Group in Wiesbaden, this will be a turning point. Previously, it played a central role in shaping the future structure of the Ukrainian army since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion.
The change in leadership means that the US will no longer unilaterally determine the structure of the Ukrainian army, although it will continue to provide support.
Kyiv's view: pros and risks
The reaction in Kyiv to this news is mixed. On the one hand, NATO allies generally supported the transfer of command, and some Ukrainian officials see a strategic advantage in this move.
"For us, this step has more advantages than disadvantages. It reduces risks that may arise due to political instability in the US and facilitates military logistics in Ukraine's interests," stated an anonymous Ukrainian official.
However, there are also serious concerns. In Kyiv, there is fear that integrating command into NATO's complex bureaucratic structure could slow down the delivery of aid to the front line. Critics of the transition point to the uniqueness of US capabilities.
"No one can replace US satellite reconnaissance capabilities, targeting, and the logistical capabilities provided by US heavy transport aircraft," warned another source in the Ukrainian government.
What will change for the Ukrainian Armed Forces?
The Security Assistance Group in Wiesbaden performs a unique function: it coordinates the movement of military equipment to Ukraine, oversees training, and manages material-technical support. Now, this work will fall under the auspices of NATO's European Command, which could change the speed and nature of future deliveries.
