The Irish Defence Forces will train members of the Ukrainian armed forces in a new EU mission, following a Cabinet decision today.
Up to 30 members of the Defence Forces will participate in the newly established European Union Military Assistance Mission (EUMAM) in support of Ukraine.
The training will take place in other EU member states.
Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin said: "Given Ireland's steadfast support for Ukraine and the considerable experience our Defence Forces have in providing training both at home and overseas, the Government regards the participation of the Defence Forces in this mission as an important signal of Ireland’s unwavering support for and solidarity with Ukraine."
Speaking on his way into Cabinet this morning, Mr Martin said: "We are quite concerned about unexploded bombs and ordinances across Ukraine and therefore there are certain areas that, if we can be of assistance, we will, on the training side."
Last October, the Russian Ambassador claimed if Ireland provided any help to Ukraine to clear land mines it would result in the country being directly involved in the conflict.
Yury Filatov said at the time: "There is no way around the fact that by engaging with the Ukrainian military, be it on mines or otherwise, Ireland would clearly be involved in the ongoing conflict in a direct way."
The stated aim of EUMAM Ukraine is to enhance the military capability of the Ukrainian armed forces to allow them to defend Ukraine's territory, as well as to protect the civilian population.
The trainers will be supplemented by a small number of staff based in the Military Planning and Conduct Capability (MPCC) staff based in Brussels, Belgium and in the multi-national Special Training Command (STC) in Strausberg, Germany.
Equipment (both lethal and non-lethal), which is provided by EU member states is funded by the European Peace Facility (EPF). Ireland's funding contribution to the EPF is directed exclusively to non-lethal elements, consistent with the terms of the Programme for Government.
Since 28 November 2022, 24 EU member states have offered more than 100 training modules to date.
