EU Is Considering Military Training Program For Ukrainian Forces

The European Union will discuss launching a major training program for Ukrainian forces in neighboring countries, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said on August 22.

Speaking at a press conference in the northern Spanish city of Santander, Borrell said the move will be discussed next week at a meeting of EU defense ministers in Prague.

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In an effort to liberate territory held by Russian occupiers, the British military has pledged to train 10,000 Ukrainian recruits in shooting, combat first aid, and urban warfare within 120 days. Here's a look at the training that is being provided at an army base in England. 

"Of course, it would be a big mission," he said, adding "any mission has to be up to the level of the conflict."

Military equipment and intelligence data provided by the United States and Western Europe have helped Ukrainian forces to slow -- but not stall -- the advance of Russian forces in eastern Ukraine and along the Black Sea coast.

"It seems reasonable that a war that is lasting and looks set to last requires an effort not only in terms of supplies of material," Borrell said.

"This is what is being discussed among the member states and will be discussed politically next week," he said, without giving other details.

Based on reporting by AFP and Reuters