War on Ukraine: what the EU training mission means

The EU wants to train 15,000 Ukrainian soldiers in a major mission. Who should train how many soldiers? What role should Germany play? What does that mean politically? Questions and answers.

The EU foreign ministers have decided on a training mission for the armed forces of Ukraine. According to diplomats, the new “EU Military Assistance Mission” (EUMAM) in Ukraine is by far the largest EU training mission for a third country. According to the EU, she should help the Ukrainian armed forces to continue their “brave fight” against Russia.

What is planned?

The new “EU Military Assistance Mission” Ukraine is initially planned for two years. According to Federal Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, the member states want to train around 15,000 Ukrainian soldiers. In doing so, the EU wants to give Ukraine “the best possible support in its right to self-defense” in the Russian war of aggression, said Baerbock. Ideally, the mission should start in mid-November.

Who is training how many soldiers?

Most soldiers will probably be trained in Poland and Germany. Military circles recently said that the Bundeswehr could train a brigade with up to 5,000 Ukrainian soldiers. Details are to be clarified in the coming weeks. According to France, it wants to train up to 2,000 Ukrainians.

Is Germany a leading nation?

No, this role is claimed by Poland. The fact that the government in Warsaw demanded a central headquarters for the mission caused displeasure in Brussels. After tough negotiations, a larger base is now being established in Poland and a smaller one in Germany. Poland sees itself as the guardian of Ukrainian interests in the EU.

How much does the training mission cost?

The EU estimates the costs that can be financed from joint pots at 106.7 million euros. Not included, for example, is the pay for the trainers. It is borne by the states that provide it.

What should the Ukrainian soldiers learn?

New recruits can go through basic training. Special training is available for more experienced soldiers. In Germany, for example, they should learn how to use the IRIS-T SLM air defense system. The German government has delivered the first of these systems to the Ukraine, and three more are to follow in the coming year. In addition, mine detection can be trained, but also protection against ABC weapons and drone defense.

Is the EU mission a step towards direct participation in the war?

The EU vehemently denies this. She sees the mission as another component of EU policy to support Ukraine for as long as it is necessary – financially, politically, diplomatically, with weapons and also with missions.

Will German soldiers be sent to Ukraine?

The federal government rules this out just as categorically as other EU countries do for their soldiers. In that case, the argument went, all of Europe would be drawn into the Russian war.

Will there continue to be national training programs?

Probably yes. The mission will ensure coordination with member states’ bilateral activities, as well as with other like-minded international partners, the EU said. In addition, the mission is also open to the participation of states that are not members of the European Union.

Sources: dpa and AFP