Ukraine's security forces ready for Euro 2012

Ukraine is ready to ensure safety during the Euro 2012 soccer championship, the highest-profile sports event to be held in the ex-Soviet country since its independence, Ukraine's Security Service chief Igor Kalinin said Thursday. "We are preparing for this event seriously and thoroughly. Almost all departments and regional security bodies are involved in the preparations," Kalinin told the Interfax-Ukraine news agency. Kalinin said Ukraine has created a special agency that is responsible for coordinating international efforts in the field of public safety during the event. Ukraine's security staff will work with foreign counterparts to tackle possible terrorist attacks and other threats during the tournament, Kalinin added. He also said that last year Ukraine's Security Service conducted 33 training sessions for security personnel in the Euro 2012 infrastructure facilities, including stadiums, international airports, sports and hotel complexes. Kalinin said that such training and educational activities will continue right up to the start of the tournament. The Euro 2012 will be hosted by Ukraine and Poland between June 8 and July 1.