An undisclosed location in eastern France serves as the training ground for over 2,000 Ukrainian soldiers who are being prepared to form a combined-arms brigade for deployment at the front. This effort is part of a training program co-constructed with Ukrainian instructors and supervised by 1,400 French soldiers. The brigade, named “Anne of Kyiv”, will consist of two command posts, three infantry battalions, and full logistical support units, along with a variety of equipment including armoured vehicles, howitzers, air-defence systems, and more.
The French government, led by President Emmanuel Macron, has taken a proactive role in supporting Ukraine, with plans to provide Mirage 2000 fighter jets equipped with cruise missiles. The training program aims to address past shortcomings in Ukrainian operations, such as unfamiliarity with equipment and lack of collective training. Despite challenges with conscription and loss of territory to Russia, the Ukrainian trainees, with an average age of 38, show high motivation and ability to learn quickly.
While this training program may provide Ukraine with a tactical advantage on the battlefield, the broader geopolitical landscape remains uncertain. European leaders, including Macron, are concerned about their ability to influence the situation in Ukraine. By bolstering the military capabilities of Ukrainian forces, they hope to strengthen the country’s negotiating position in ongoing conflicts with Russia. As Ukraine faces ongoing challenges in mobilizing fresh forces, support from European allies, particularly France, takes on increased importance.
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