EU Divided Over Ukraine Soldier Training Plans

The European Union is contemplating an expansion of its training mission for Ukrainian soldiers, aiming to increase the number trained from 60,000, but remains divided on whether this should take place in Ukraine itself. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell indicated that while there is discussion about establishing a coordination center in Ukraine, no consensus has been reached regarding training on Ukrainian soil due to concerns over escalating conflict with Russia. Many member states, including France and Estonia, support in-country training, while others, like Hungary and Germany, express fears over safety and potential provocations. A recent EU document highlighted the need for further analysis on the implications of training within Ukraine, citing logistical and safety issues. The EU's Military Assistance Mission has primarily conducted training in Poland and Germany, but Ukraine argues that local training would be more efficient. The situation remains fluid as EU ministers prepare to discuss these proposals further.