Commander gets perspective on vital NZDF work overseas

They’re parts of the globe with common themes: ongoing security tensions and significant challenges to the international rules-based system. It’s where New Zealand has been making a difference for decades with the New Zealand Defence Force’s long-standing contribution to United Nations missions.

Major General Krushka has recently visited United Nations missions in the Middle East, Africa and South Korea, talking to deployed personnel.

This includes the United Nations’ oldest peacekeeping mission, the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation (UNTSO), where observers patrol and monitor ceasefires and military activity in Golan Heights and Lebanon as part of efforts to preserve peace between Israel and its neighbours Jordan, Egypt, Lebanon and Syria. Up to eight NZDF personnel are typically deployed, an ongoing commitment from 1954.

For Korea, the New Zealand Defence Force deploys 12 personnel in roles with United Nations Command and its Military Armistice Commission, as part of New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

Major General Krushka says New Zealand personnel are valued for the contribution to UNTSO as military observers and being part of a vital presence during ongoing tensions.

In Juba, South Sudan’s capital, he listened to the experiences of NZDF personnel.

“While conditions are fragile, our personnel are committed to making a tangible contribution to peace and security in the African nation in their roles with UNMISS including through their work planning patrols and reporting to the UN.”

In Korea, the roles centre around the maintenance and monitoring of the 1953 Korean Armistice Agreement.

In addition, a New Zealand Army infantry platoon is close to completing a three month deployment where the soldiers have been training with United States and Korean personnel in jungle, mountainous and urban environments.

“Our personnel value these deployments and the ability to contribute to security and stability on the Korean Peninsula, and in turn they have been commended for their professionalism.

“Hearing first-hand from our personnel has reinforced the exchange of skills both ways and the importance of building relationships so we can continue to work well together in the future.”