National Guard of Ukraine
gendarmerie
Also known as: NGU, National Guard, Ukraine, Ukrainian National Guard
The National Guard of Ukraine (NGU) serves as the national gendarmerie and internal troops, operating under the Ministry of Internal Affairs to maintain public security and support state defense. Established on November 4, 1991, it has undergone significant transformations, particularly in response to national crises, including the 2014 Revolution of Dignity and the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War.
History
The National Guard of Ukraine was established by the Law of Ukraine 'On the National Guard of Ukraine' on November 4, 1991, No. 1775-XII. It was formed from parts of the Internal Troops of the Soviet Union in the Ukrainian SSR and aimed to inherit the legacy of the Gendarmerie of the Ukrainian People's Republic, which existed from 1918 to 1919. In its early years, the National Guard participated in the Transnistria War in 1992 and the 1992–1994 Crimean Crisis.
Political opposition led to the dissolution of the National Guard in 2000 under President Leonid Kuchma, merging it with the Internal Troops of Ukraine as a cost-saving measure. Some units were reassigned to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Reformation
In 2014, in response to the Russian intervention in Crimea, the National Guard was re-established based on the Internal Troops of Ukraine. The revival was formalized by the Law of Ukraine 'On the National Guard of Ukraine' on March 12, 2014. The government announced plans to recruit 10,000 personnel shortly after its reformation, aiming for an initial strength of 33,000.
The National Guard's responsibilities included maintaining public order, protecting critical infrastructure, and acting as a counterinsurgency force, particularly in eastern Ukraine. Funding was allocated for weapons procurement and training, with a goal to increase personnel to 60,000.
Operational Engagements
During the war in Donbas, the National Guard engaged in combat against pro-Russian separatists and participated in significant battles, including the First Battle of Mariupol and the First Battle of Donetsk Airport. The National Guard also faced internal challenges, with protests from its personnel regarding conscription and demobilization.
By mid-April 2016, the National Guard had lost 308 personnel since the onset of the conflict, including those from its volunteer battalions.
Russo-Ukrainian War
Beginning February 24, 2022, the National Guard has been actively involved in the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War. Notably, during the Battle of Antonov Airport, the 4th Rapid Reaction Brigade effectively countered a Russian airborne assault, contributing to the defense of Kyiv.
The National Guard has also played a critical role in the Siege of Mariupol, with the Azov Regiment among the main defenders. The unit's controversial origins have been leveraged by Russia to frame the Ukrainian government negatively.