Kiev, April 2 (RHC), -- The Ukrainian Parliament approved today, by 235 votes, a law authorizing foreign military units to enter national territory in 2014 to participate in multinational maneuvers.

The initiative, presented by the country's self-proclaimed leader and head of the legislature, Alexánder Turchínov, was backed by nine lawmakers above the 226 needed for its approval.

According to a communique, the law as passed allows for nearly 2,500 soldiers from Ukraine and the same number from allied countries, to participate in drills.

Mijail Koval, Interim Defense Minister imposed in Kiev after President Víktor Yanukóvich was overthrown, explained that the drills are aimed at preparing support for international peace and security.

Ukrainian law prohibits the establishment of foreign military bases and requires that the head of State present a special law every time foreign troops are allowed into the country.

The drills will take place from May to November and nearly 7,000 soldiers will participate, noted Deputy Head of the Committee on National Security, Alexander Kuzmuk, in spite of the fact that Ukrainian law establishes that only 5,000 soldiers may take part in maneuvers.

The war games will take place in the southern area of Ukraine, on the Black Sea, and also in the western parts of the country, Kuzmuk stressed during his speech at the parliament.

The drills will involve the Army, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard forces, he said. According to RIA Novosti news agency reports, U.S. and NATO detachments will also participate.