The Pentagon is planning to increase its military presence at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, Ukraine by sending additional advisers reportedly aiming to provide “non-combat support” to the Ukrainian military, a move that has ignited serious concerns about increasing U.S.financial and personnel involvement in the ongoing conflict.
As more funding is given to the embattled nation and tensions continue to rise between Washington, D.C., and Moscow, the Department of Defense (DOD) is pulling out the Vietnam strategy in Eastern Europe.
Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder a Pentagon spokesperson stated “We are considering sending several additional advisers to augment the Office of Defense Cooperation at the Embassy.” He underscored that the newly deployed personnel will concentrate on training Ukrainian troops in logistics and maintenance for the U.S.-provided military equipment.
The announcement comes in the wake of the House approving a $60.8 billion aid package for Ukraine after months of delays. Former President Donald Trump and other conservatives who are wary of prolonged foreign entanglements have viewed the development with skepticism despite the Biden administration’s welcome.
The term “advisers” has drawn comparisons to historical instances where U.S. “advisers” were precursors to deeper military involvement. It brings back memories of U.S. roles in Southeast Asia during the Cold War where military advisers initially deployed in non-combat roles gradually became engaged in direct conflict.
Currently 18 Army/Air Force members and one civilian from the DOD are stationed in Ukraine. Their numbers could potentially increase to 60.
“Throughout this conflict the DOD has reviewed and adjusted our presence in-country as security conditions have evolved,” Ryder said. He added “Personnel are subject to the same travel restrictions as all embassy employees.”
These advisers are allegedly serving to help with embassy security and oversee the accountability of weapons and equipment.
