Copenhagen: EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced on Friday that there is 'broad support' among member states to expand the EU's military mission to provide training and advice inside Ukraine following any truce. Speaking at a press conference in Copenhagen after an informal meeting of EU defense ministers, Kallas emphasized that Russia's recent attacks on Kyiv demonstrate Moscow's reluctance to pursue peace.
According to Anadolu Agency, Kallas welcomed the broad support for expanding the EU military mission mandate to include training and advice within Ukraine. She stressed that the recent missile attacks on Kyiv highlight Russia's deliberate choice to escalate tensions and undermine peace efforts. Kallas mentioned that security guarantees for Ukraine must be 'robust and credible' to prevent a recurrence of the 2022 conflict.
Kallas underscored the EU's role as the largest provider of military training to Ukraine, having trained over 80,000 soldiers thus far. She suggested that the mission could involve placing EU trainers in Ukraine and military academies and institutions, as well as strengthening Ukraine's resilience against Russian hybrid attacks. She called for Europe to be prepared to act collectively, ensuring that the EU takes a significant role in security guarantees, with the US providing support.
Kallas also noted that the EU's military and civilian operations would be subject to ongoing evaluation. She mentioned the importance of reviewing mandates and their impacts to adapt to future challenges.
On the topic of energy security, Kallas pointed out the contradiction of Europe continuing to purchase Russian fossil fuels. She emphasized the EU's goal of ending reliance on Russian energy and condemned any attacks on European soil.
Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen echoed the urgency of supporting Ukraine, stating that immediate military support is crucial to avoid greater long-term costs. Poulsen highlighted Denmark's investment in Ukraine's defense industry, which is expected to significantly increase this year. He also mentioned plans to invite a Ukrainian defense company to start production in Denmark, providing a safe environment for its operations.
Kallas concluded by noting that discussions on EU defense readiness would continue ahead of the October European Council. She emphasized that record defense spending would be effective only if it resulted in real capabilities and was executed collectively.