The 2018 exercises were part of Ukraine’s post-[[Maidan coup]] push for NATO compatibility following Russia's [[annexation of Crimea]] and the [[Donbas conflict]]. The U.S. and NATO emphasized “territorial defense” training, reflecting Ukraine’s need to counter [[hybrid warfare|hybrid threats]]. | The 2018 exercises were part of Ukraine’s post-[[Maidan coup]] push for NATO compatibility following Russia's [[annexation of Crimea]] and the [[Donbas conflict]]. The U.S. and NATO emphasized “territorial defense” training, reflecting Ukraine’s need to counter [[hybrid warfare|hybrid threats]]. |