WIESBADEN, Germany —
U.S. Army Europe and Africa welcomed the new commander of Security Assistance Group – Ukraine (SAG-U) and NATO Security Assistance & Training for Ukraine (NSATU), Lt. Gen. Guillaume N. Beaurpere, at Lucius D. Clay Kaserne, Germany, August 3, 2026.
Lt. Gen. Curtis A. Buzzard relinquished command during a change of command ceremony presided over by Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich, Commander of United States European Command and NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe.
Buzzard assumed command in August 2024. SAG-U is a dedicated headquarters established in 2022 to provide long-term, focused organizational structure to coordinate and oversee the full spectrum of security assistance to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
“It has been a privilege to lead this extraordinary multinational team,” said Buzzard. “The unwavering dedication of our Service Members, Allies, and Partners over the last two years has been instrumental in strengthening Ukraine's capacity to defend its sovereignty. I leave this command immensely proud of what we have accomplished and confident in the continued success of this mission. Together, we have created a window of opportunity for Ukraine to achieve peace. This window will grow as Ukraine continues to raise the cost of war for Russia.”
Prior to assuming command, Beaurpere served as the Chief of Staff of U.S. Special Operations Command. Throughout his career, Beaurpere has commanded at every level of Special Operations, including tours with the 1st and 10th Special Forces Groups (Airborne) and commanding the Special Operations Joint Task Force Inherent Resolve.
“I am deeply honored to assume command of SAG-U and NSATU,” said Beaurpere. “We will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our Allies and Partners. We will work to ensure the Ukrainian military receives critical training, equipment, and support necessary to defend their nation.” SAG-U and NSATU are comprised of joint and multinational service members, including personnel from more than 25 nations.
During his remarks, Grynkewich noted the missions of SAG-U and NSATU were at the point of an important evolution.
“NSATU has matured over the last two years, and this presents a natural opportunity to transition certain SAG-U functions to that command,” he said. “Will, under your leadership, NSATU will assume responsibility for Ukrainian training, material management, and sustainment support.”
Grynkewich also noted SAG-U will transition, and that once complete the organization will go away.
“We will rapidly move to a more sustainable and effective model with U.S.-specific support functions moving to US Army Europe and Africa and other European Command Components,” he said. “These transitions are a natural progression and positive result – not just of NSATU’s performance – but also our European Allies taking primary responsibility for defense and security on this continent.”
Grynkewich also said that in about a year, a European or Canadian will take command of NSATU, with America assuming the deputy commander role.
He emphasized the moves do not mean a decrease in support for Ukraine.
“They mean more effective, efficient and sustainable support, with increased European leadership delivering it,” Grynkewich said.
For additional information, contact SAG-U Public Affairs at usarmy.wiesbaden.usareur-af.mbx.sag-u-pao@army.mil.