One Year EUMAM UAEuropean Union Military Assistance Mission Ukraine Special Training Command

The ST-C can look back on a successful year. On 15 November 2022, we started to coordinate and synchronize the already existing training on systems having been provided to Ukraine at the European level. For the ST-C, this means European projects in Germany.

As a result, we have established a support logistics system that has not existed to this extent before. In addition to individual training in connection with the handover of materiel, we offer the training of staffs and self-contained units. This means from the company to the brigade level.

At the same time, we train the technical personnel required so that they can independently maintain and repair the materiel delivered. In addition, the course of the Russian war of aggression contrary to international law has taught us that certain areas must be addressed with priority. In this context, I would like to mention mine reconnaissance and clearance or medical training, for example.

However, the training of military leaders also plays an ever more important role in supporting Ukraine because many Ukrainian soldiers have already been killed in action. In the end, we must show great flexibility in order to meet the requirements. Ukraine tells us what it needs, and we will satisfy these needs accordingly.

For me, the commitment with which all persons involved get to work is the key to success of the mission. The Ukrainian soldiers are highly motivated, which is certainly understandable in view of the serious situation in their home country. But the instructors of the Bundeswehr and of friendly armed forces also go to their limits. The long training days, partly in difficult weather conditions, are not only physically demanding, but also result in high mental strain. This applies to both the Ukrainian soldiers and the instructors. Nevertheless, this does not prevent anyone from giving his/her best.

In this context, the logistics personnel must be mentioned as well. It is not always easy to respond to requests that are mostly made at short notice. So far, however, our military personnel have done an excellent job. Even beyond the restraints of the ST-C, perfect support has been provided.

The travel process, organized by the Bundeswehr Homeland Defense Command, went smoothly for the most part. The entire organization of accommodation, messing, etc. is carried out under the lead responsibility of the Joint Support and Enabling Service (JSES). The positive overall picture of all persons involved makes me look ahead to the upcoming challenges full of confidence.