The Radical Left (De Radikale) party proposes that Denmark should send training personnel to Ukraine to support the Ukrainian soldiers’ combat skills in the ongoing conflict with Russia. The proposer, the Radical Left’s defense spokesperson Christian Friis Bach, believes that Denmark should take the lead in this discussion, which is already taking place in several other European countries, including France, the UK, and Lithuania. Christian Friis Bach points out that there are several advantages to having Danish instructors train Ukrainian soldiers directly in Ukraine. Firstly, the training could take place under conditions similar to those at the frontline, which could provide a more realistic preparation. Secondly, it would be practical for the Ukrainian soldiers as they would not need to leave the country. Finally, it would allow for the use of locally-produced equipment. However, there are also risks associated with having Danish training bases in Ukraine, including potential attacks on the bases and the risk of Danish casualties. These concerns emphasize the need for a thorough discussion and assessment of security measures before any deployment takes place. Christian Friis Bach himself has been to Ukraine with Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen and Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen to assess the situation. During the visit, discussions were also held on how to best protect the training facilities with additional air defense and other security measures. The question of whether Danish military presence in Ukraine could be perceived as escalation towards Russia was also addressed by Friis Bach. He argues that it could send a strong signal of solidarity with Ukraine and potentially act as a deterrent to further Russian aggression. The discussion on Danish military training personnel in Ukraine is expected to be raised in the negotiating forum behind the Ukraine Fund (Ukrainefonden), where the type of training that may take place on Ukrainian soil will be assessed.

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