FORMATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES OF THE NATIONAL GUARD OF UKRAINE: HISTORICAL AND LEGAL ASPECT

The article is devoted to a detailed analysis of the history of law enforcement activities of the national resistance forces of Ukraine, revealing the evolution of military formations with law enforcement functions from their first beginnings to modern structures. The author analyses the historical preconditions that laid the foundation for the creation of organised military forces for the protection of society. Examples from ancient times are considered, when princely squads and Cossack detachments performed not only combat missions, but also the functions of law enforcement and protection of the local community. The article pays considerable attention to the analysis of the events of the First World War, considering the role of the Ukrainian Sich Riflemen as one of the key power groups of that time. These formations not only took part in these actions, but also performed important law enforcement functions. The author also examines the period of Soviet Ukraine and the development of national resistance at that time. After declaring independence in 1991, Ukraine was able to create its own defence and law enforcement system. In this context, the first generation of the National Guard of Ukraine, a military formation that combined defence and law enforcement functions, was formed. The article highlights the main steps of this process, analysing how the creation of the NGU was a response to the need to protect sovereignty, maintain law and order and defend national interests. The author concludes that the development of military and law enforcement structures in Ukraine is an important component of its statehood. Today, when Ukraine is once again forced to fight for its independence, the role of the NGU and other security forces is crucial for preserving the sovereignty, peace, stability and security of Ukrainian society.