The German government intends to continue training Ukrainian soldiers. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated at the forces training ground in the city of Klietz in eastern Germany today, Friday, that Berlin is interested in extending the training mission mandate beyond next November. It is noted that Klietz, located on the border between Saxony-Anhalt and Brandenburg states, hosts a site for training Ukrainian soldiers.
During the visit, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said, “10,000 Ukrainian soldiers were trained last year and another 10,000 will be trained this year in 2024.” He added that Russia and its political leadership bear responsibility for the “atrocities and bloodshed,” and continued, “Russia wants to strip Ukraine of its independence and freedom. Russia is seizing land in Ukraine and violating the fundamental principles of international law.”
The German President further stated, “In such cases, there should be no doubt where we stand, where our country stands, where Germany stands – alongside Ukraine. That is where we stand and will remain.” Regarding the extension of the mandate, Pistorius said, “We will discuss this in coordination with our partners, primarily with Ukraine, and then of course with European partners, as it concerns a mission for the European Union. But yes, we are interested in this, and unfortunately, the need for it undoubtedly remains even at the end of the year, we must say this.”
The minister, who belongs to Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democratic Party, added: “Our responsibility places us alongside Ukraine as long as it is necessary,” indicating that the matter involves supporting a country in Europe “fighting a war of survival against an imperial aggressor. Every form of help is important, not just materials.” He stated that Germany provides this assistance significantly.
Pistorius saw that training plays a pivotal role for Ukraine, starting from training sergeants and officers to tank crews and up to weapons systems training.
