Ten Nations Launch Tallinn Mechanism for Cyber Support to Ukraine
On Wednesday, December 20, ten countries launched the Tallinn Mechanism to enhance cyber support for Ukraine in the civilian sector. Additionally, Estonia allocates €500,000 to support this mechanism in its development budget for 2024, as reported by the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The mechanism was established during the first meeting of donor countries this spring. Its purpose is to systematize Ukraine's needs and develop a unified approach to coordinating assistance in the field of cybersecurity. The mechanism aims to ensure that support from different countries forms a cohesive strategy aimed at enhancing Ukraine's cyber resilience.
"Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine is not confined to the traditional battlefield. Russia's objectives include Ukraine's cyber capabilities, both military and civilian. Therefore, it is crucial to support Ukraine's cyber defence and its ability to restore and develop the corresponding infrastructure," commented Estonian Minister of Foreign Affairs Margus Tsahkna.
Participants in this program include Estonia, the Netherlands, Canada, Poland, France, Sweden, Germany, Denmark, the USA, and the United Kingdom. NATO and the European Union act as observers in this process.
The Tallinn Mechanism has a front office in Kyiv, a back office in Warsaw, and a coordination group bringing together representatives of Ukraine and donor countries. Other countries may join the mechanism in the future.
"Unfortunately, it is highly likely that cyberattacks from Russia will continue in the foreseeable future. That's why through this mechanism, we provide an opportunity to strengthen Ukraine's systemic readiness and resilience to cyberattacks in the long term," added Margus Tsahkna.
High-tech companies and non-governmental organizations from donor countries also participate in the mechanism. It is important to note that the Tallinn Mechanism operates in parallel with the IT Coalition, which focuses on addressing Ukraine's cyber challenges in the defence sector using advanced information technologies.
In late autumn, The Gaze reported that the armed forces of Switzerland, despite its neutral status, are participating in joint NATO exercises "Cyber Coalition" aimed at defending against cyberattacks, taking place in Estonia.