The European Union's diplomatic service has called for member states to adapt their military training mission for Ukraine, addressing Kyiv's evolving needs. This recommendation comes as the EU evaluates the effectiveness of its current training program and considers potential changes.
EUMAM Ukraine, the EU's military assistance mission, has been operational since November 2022. In less than two years, it has trained approximately 60,000 Ukrainian troops, primarily in Poland and Germany. The mission's current mandate is set to expire in mid-November 2024, with plans for a two-year extension under discussion.
One of the primary challenges identified in the EU's review is the shortage of Soviet-style equipment for training purposes. The report emphasizes the importance of training Ukrainian soldiers on the same equipment they will use in combat situations.
"It is imperative to train AFU (Ukraine) soldiers on the same equipment that they will use later in combat"
In May 2024, Kyiv requested that some training be conducted on Ukrainian soil. However, this proposal has met with mixed reactions from EU member states. Skeptics warn of the potential for the bloc to be drawn into the conflict and express concerns about Ukraine's ability to protect training sites from Russian attacks, given its limited air defense capabilities.
The EU review explores the possibility of deploying instructors to Ukrainian training facilities, albeit in a "discrete form" and far from the battlefield. However, it acknowledges the significant risks involved:
"It is highly likely that an EU military presence on Ukrainian soil would be perceived by Russia as a provocation"
The review outlines several challenges, including the need for emergency evacuation procedures, fortified housing and training sites for instructors, and the inability to fully protect against long-range air threats. Despite these concerns, the document concludes that deploying EU military personnel to Ukraine is feasible, provided necessary political and operational conditions are met.
Alternative solutions proposed in the review include establishing a coordination cell in Kyiv and exploring options to conduct training closer to Ukraine's borders. The report also suggests training more Ukrainian instructors to enhance local capabilities.
As the situation evolves, EU defense ministers are scheduled to discuss these recommendations in the coming week. The outcome of these discussions will likely shape the future of the EU's military assistance to Ukraine, balancing the need for effective training with the complex geopolitical realities of the region.
The EUMAM Ukraine mission, established on October 17, 2022, represents the EU's first military training mission on European soil. With its headquarters in Brussels and operational command based in Germany, the mission aims to enhance Ukraine's military capability and interoperability. It provides a range of training, including individual, collective, and specialized instruction, as well as education on international humanitarian law and human rights.
As the EU continues to support Ukraine's defense efforts, the adaptation of its training mission remains a critical component of its broader strategy to assist the country in defending its territorial integrity and sovereignty.