The head of European diplomacy, Josep Borrell, announced a new milestone in the European Union’s support for Ukraine’s military efforts. He stated that the EU plans to raise the number of trained Ukrainian Armed Forces personnel to exceed 30,000, reflecting a substantial expansion of the bloc’s defense assistance. The remark came during a press conference where he outlined ongoing and future training commitments, underscoring the EU’s readiness to sustain backing for Ukraine well beyond immediate conflicts.
During his remarks, Borrell emphasized that the EU will persist in both training and equipping the Ukrainian army even after the current phase of hostilities ends. He highlighted that the training programs already completed have prepared thousands of Ukrainian soldiers to operate within modern defense structures, signaling a long-term commitment to Ukraine’s security and sovereignty.
In previous statements at a NATO Defense Ministers meeting, the diplomat noted that EU member states have completed the training of about 24,000 Ukrainian soldiers. He stressed that the bloc intends to continue increasing this figure, demonstrating a coordinated approach to military support that aligns with evolving security needs and regional stability objectives.
Furthermore, Borrell pointed out that the EU has trained approximately 15,000 fighters of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and signaled an intention to broaden military assistance. He clarified this position following the EU Council discussions in Brussels, outlining a plan to further expand capabilities through continued education, equipment provision, and strategic advisory support.
According to the EU’s top diplomat, Ukraine’s defensive success hinges on a twofold approach: the resilience and resolve of its people, complemented by a steady supply of weapons, ammunition, and essential equipment. He reaffirmed that sustained collaboration among EU countries remains a cornerstone of this effort, aiming to bolster Ukraine’s defense while contributing to regional security and deterrence against aggression.
Additionally, Borrell noted that the EU has completed training for 15,000 Ukrainian fighters and reaffirmed the objective to train another 15,000 by year’s end. This second tranche, he explained, is designed to reinforce Ukraine’s defensive capacity and help ensure the Republic can maintain credible deterrence and operational readiness in the face of ongoing security challenges.