European Union Approves Training Plan for Ukrainian Soldiers
The European Union’s plan to assist Ukraine in the war against Russia has finally been approved by foreign ministers. After taking some time earlier this year debating what would be the best course of action to support Ukraine, as well as the growing pressure from Russia’s increase in troop mobilization, the EU concluded that offering military training to Ukrainian citizens would be the best course of action. Several countries had previously offered help before the plan was approved. Poland, for example, offered to train 12,000 troops, while Germany offered to train another 3,000. The approval of the plan comes at a crucial time, as Russia has moved to mobilize 300,000 more troops for their war effort.
Volunteer soldiers training outside of Kyiv, Ukraine. AP Photo/Andrew Kravchenko
The EU’s approved plan provides assistance in two crucial ways. One is a training mission in Europe for thousands of European soldiers over the next two years, and the other is an extra 500 million euros to fund the supply of weapons. Of the 500 million euros going towards funding supplies, about 10 million euros will be used specifically for protective gear and items such as first-aid supplies and fuel. Training will be conducted primarily in Belgium under the command of Vice Admiral Herve Blejean, a French naval officer. Personnel will consist of both Ukranians and specialized forces, and will have the goal of training a total of 15,000 soldiers.
The plan shows the immense amount of support that the EU is willing to provide to help Ukraine defend itself. Joseph Borrell, a top diplomat in the EU, stressed the importance of utilizing skill sets from various European countries in order to equip Ukraine with a “niche skill set.” Beyond the plan, individual support offered by European countries in aid of Ukraine has been immense. On top of Germany and Poland’s pledges, France has promised that they will be able to train 2,000 soldiers. In addition, Ireland offered assistance in providing Ukraine with skills regarding managing explosives, which would be crucial in combating the large amount of land mines Russia has deployed since the start of the war, an act which has caused significant civilian casualties.
Denmark's Foreign Minister Jeppe Kofod meets with Finland's Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto during the meeting of EU foreign ministers on Oct. 17, 2022. AP Photo/Virginia Mayo
This kind of support from EU member states is based on need and is certain to evolve as the war progresses and changes. Not only has this war shown the necessity of alliance and teamwork when reaching a common goal, but it has also been historic for some EU members. In particular, Denmark, a country that was once part of an opt-out referendum to the Common Security and Defense Policy (CSDP) is now joining the EU’s Defense Policy. This shift shows how Nordic countries and countries that were once more neutral are now stepping up and changing their policies in order to support Ukraine. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated that this action sends a signal to NATO allies in Europe, and an even bigger signal to Putin. The recent trend of European countries coming closer together is, of course, due to the fact that Ukraine is an independent country dealing with an invasion, but is also part of a global trend. By taking these actions, Denmark is showing that European allies must pioritize protecting their own safety and security. The step to authorize the plan to train more soldiers further shows the commitment to collective action by EU member states, which will be crucial for the success of Ukraine in the conflict.