Changes in Ukrainian military training: why Ukraine now trains abroad no more
Since the onset of Russia’s large-scale military aggression against Ukraine, the Ukrainian armed forces have undergone significant transformations in their training systems.
Previously, Ukrainian servicemen received training in various European and American countries, but currently, leadership is focusing on conducting training within Ukraine, recognizing that modern warfare demands rapid adaptation and deployment of the latest technologies.
President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted this in an interview with Sky News, emphasizing that the methods and formats of training are evolving due to profound changes in tactics and the dynamics of combat, especially regarding the use of unmanned systems and high-tech military tools.The head of state also pointed out that starting from 2023, Ukrainian soldiers primarily train either on their own territory or with partner countries, considering the changing nature of warfare.
He mentioned that while earlier Ukrainian troops trained abroad, now the focus is on organizing training directly in Ukraine to facilitate swift knowledge exchange and technology transfer.
This approach allows Ukrainian and foreign soldiers to share experiences more efficiently and adapt more quickly to combat challenges.Zelensky further stressed that today’s war is highly technological and rapidly changing, requiring constant updating of skills for Ukrainian troops and their allies.
Ukraine actively collaborates with the European Union and partner countries, with over 30,000 Ukrainian soldiers already having trained in Poland, the Baltic states, and Great Britain.
However, due to the evolving operational environment, the main emphasis now lies on conducting training within Ukraine to ensure faster implementation of innovations and exchange of expertise.The president also emphasized that both Russia and Ukraine have accumulated unique combat experience, which could be invaluable for allies.
He noted that both countries are learning from each other and that Ukraine aims to be open to international cooperation by sharing its technologies and combat experience, advocating for continued financial support for reforms and defense initiatives.
Zelensky concluded by highlighting the importance of maintaining technological superiority in this high-tech battlefield and fostering global partnership to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities.