Representatives of the Land Forces Command, the East Operational Command, representatives of the US Armed Forces and partner countries took part in the opening ceremony at the International Center for Peacekeeping and Security, Ukrinform reports citing the  Defense Ministry’s press service .

“Today we are jointly opening a new page in history. We are starting education for the future of our children, our families, our peoples, for the happy future of humanity. I believe that each of you will focus all your knowledge, concentrate all your efforts to show countries -aggressors that they have no chance, “- said the commander of the training of the Land Forces of the Armed Forces, Major General Igor Palagniuk.

The opening of the exercise traditionally began with a survey of units of the participating countries, conducted by Brigadier General Vladislav Klochkov on the Ukrainian side and Colonel Michael Henson on the American side.

“I am convinced that these exercises are not just another stage of improving military skills. They are an important step on the path to Ukraine’s European integration. For their part, the Ukrainian military, which has been deterring Russian aggression for the eighth year in a row, will share with its international counterparts the unique combat experience gained in the fighting in Donbass. 2021 Brigadier General Vladislav Klochkov.

This year’s exercise is attended by servicemen from 15 countries, including Bulgaria, Canada, Georgia, Germany, Italy, Jordan, Lithuania, Moldova, Pakistan, Poland, Romania, Turkey and the United Kingdom.

In addition, the personnel of the Lithuanian-Polish-Ukrainian brigade will take part in the exercises.

As reported by the US Embassy in Ukraine in a telegram, the 81st Brigade Armored Vehicle Battle Group of the National Guard of Washington, which is stationed in support of the Joint Multinational Study Group-Ukraine since April 2021, will take part in the exercise. In addition, about 150 more representatives of the US Armed Forces will join the exercises to provide forces and resources.

U.S. diplomats say the Rapid Trident-2021 exercise is a continuation of a more than 25-year partnership between the United States and Ukraine.