Security Operations – Ukraine
Bridging the Gap: How Local Expertise Enhances Security Operations in Ukraine
As the war in Ukraine continues into its third year, the demand for international security support remains high. With numerous NGOs and media outlets operating near the front lines, alongside corporate missions requiring robust logistical support, the need for well-organised, culturally fluent, and professional security services is critical. However, one significant issue still impedes effectiveness on the ground: a lack of integration between international security teams and an underestimation of local and regional assets.
From our experience leading security risk management operations in Ukraine since early 2022, it has become evident that language and cultural understanding are often overlooked by British and American security teams. In many areas of Ukraine, limited English proficiency makes effective operations nearly impossible without either a local connection or a partner who can bridge the gap. Polish security professionals, many of whom are bilingual or have strong cultural ties to Ukraine, are uniquely positioned to fill this role—yet their potential remains largely underutilised.
A comment from one of our partners, Mick, a highly respected British security professional with decades of experience, highlights this point well:
“One thing that comes to mind is the poor integration of other CP or security nationalities working alongside UK professionals. We all seem to keep to ourselves.
Look at Ukraine. I could have gone with UK operators or others, but I took a chance with the Polish and Ukrainian connection. A lot of UK professionals wouldn’t have done that—they’d have stuck with UK management. But for me, it made professional sense to go with a solid, professional Pole with good linguistic skills and cultural understanding.”
Mick’s choice wasn’t driven by sentiment—it was a strategic decision. Those who have worked with integrated teams in Ukraine understand how crucial language, regional knowledge, and adaptability are in today’s conflict-driven operations.
The Manpower Challenge
One of the most pressing challenges in Ukraine right now is the severe shortage of manpower. With the vast majority of able-bodied men conscripted into military service, there is a noticeable lack of reliable personnel available to support NGO, media, and corporate missions. This gap creates operational bottlenecks, delays in mission execution, and an increased demand for international operators who not only bring expertise but also cultural sensitivity and local insight.
This is precisely where Polish professionals could—and should—step in more prominently. Poland shares a border, a history, and a cultural familiarity with Ukraine. In many cases, Polish operators are not only linguistically equipped but also emotionally invested in Ukraine’s future. Yet, the global security industry still tends to default to familiar British or Western European companies, often overlooking this invaluable regional expertise.
The EPM Global Approach: Integration as a Strategic Advantage
At EPM Global, we understand that modern security risk management requires more than just experience—it demands local insight, cultural competence, and international security management frameworks. Operating in Ukraine since the onset of the conflict, we have successfully integrated Polish, British, and Ukrainian professionals into cohesive teams, leveraging the strengths of each nationality.
Our approach is rooted in internationally recognised frameworks that ensure compliance, safety, and the flexibility to adapt to complex, rapidly evolving environments. We recognise that successful operations depend on building diverse, multilingual teams capable of navigating local realities while maintaining global standards.
A Missed Opportunity for Integration
The lack of cooperation between international security professionals is not just a social issue—it’s a strategic one. Teams that isolate themselves miss out on a fuller understanding of the operating environment. They also risk alienating local partners and undermining their effectiveness in volatile environments where trust and adaptability are crucial.
Nationality should never be the primary factor in team composition. Instead, professionalism, competence, and cultural fluency should drive success. Cross-national collaboration not only improves operational outcomes but also sets a new standard for global cooperation in the security industry.
A Path Forward
To enhance the effectiveness of security operations in Ukraine and beyond, we recommend the following strategic initiatives:
• Joint Training Programs: Facilitate training sessions that bring together UK, Polish, and Ukrainian professionals to foster collaboration and mutual understanding before deployment.
• Diverse, Multinational Teams: Encourage the formation of integrated teams that leverage both local insights and international security expertise.
• Elevating Regional Expertise: International security firms should recognize Polish professionals not just as support personnel but as strategic leaders capable of shaping regional security frameworks.
• Knowledge Transfer Programs: Implement mentorship initiatives where international experts share best practices with local operators, fostering skills development and professional growth.
Conclusion
The evolving security landscape in Ukraine presents both challenges and opportunities for those willing to rethink traditional approaches. At EPM Global, we are committed to fostering cooperation among international and local professionals, enabling more robust and adaptive security solutions.
By embracing integration, leveraging local resources, and adhering to international standards, we believe that Polish security professionals can establish themselves as indispensable assets in Ukraine and on the global stage. As Ukraine moves toward rebuilding, those who combine local insight with professional rigor will play the most vital roles in shaping the country’s future security environment.
