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SZCZECIN, Poland – Lieutenant General Jürgen-Joachim von Sandrart, Commander Multinational Corps Northeast, summarized the year 2022 and looked ahead to 2023 during an annual New Year’s reception held at Headquarters Multinational Corps Northeast on January 23. The event was attended by a great many civilian and military officials.

LTG von Sandrart delivers his New Year's speech at the reception held at Headquarters Multinational Corps Northeast / Photo by CPL Heiko Mueller

In his address, the Commander highlighted that 2022 had been an unprecedented year for NATO. Leading to far-reaching consequences, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine had fundamentally altered the Euro-Atlantic security architecture. 

It is the most fundamental attack on the very principles of our rules-based international order in a lifetime, von Sandrart stated.

At the same time, the General emphasized NATO’s cohesion and the unity among the NATO Allies and Partners who have come together as one to support Ukraine. “The Alliance has shown a remarkable degree of cohesion and the capacity to swiftly react to this fundamentally altered security environment,” the Commander said. Von Sandrart paid tribute to the remarkable resolve of the Ukrainian people and their armed forces. In addition, he highlighted that the Alliance's adaptation was proceeding at full speed. 

As emphasized by von Sandrart, Headquarters Multinational Corps Northeast continues to stand firm at the heart of NATO’s deterrence, fulfilling the role of the Regional Land Component Command for Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland. “We look at what lies ahead of us, continue our planning, deliver timely input to feed the ongoing Alliance's adaptation and remain vigilant.” 

Additionally, the Commander expressed his admiration and gratitude to the people of Poland, who by the thousands have opened their homes to Ukrainian refugees. He furthermore reaffirmed the bond with the city, conveying his thanks to the Szczecin community for remaining a welcoming host to Headquarters Multinational Corps Northeast.

Commander MNC NE's address - link (English)

Commander MNC NE's address - link (Polish)

Distinguished guests listen to Commander Multinational Corps Northeast as he delivers his speech / Photo by CPL Heiko Mueller

MNC NE's command group, including Command Senior Enlisted Leader, CWO Dominic Lapointe (left), welcomes invited guests / Photo by CPL Heiko Mueller

LTC Craig Higgins, Commander NATO eFP Battlegroup Latvia (left) / Photo by CPL Heiko Mueller