Norway: A strong partner in training

Norway supports the EU Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) mission to train Ukrainian servicemen and women. For example, the Norwegian Armed Forces provide instructors for special engineers and infantry. "The Norwegians were one of the first nations to pledge their support for the mission," recounts Lieutenant General Andreas Marlow, Commander of the Special Training Command (ST-C). "Although they are not a member of the European Union, they did not hesitate to get involved and proved themselves to be an important partner," General Marlow continued. The NATO partners from Scandinavia are now one of the largest troop contributors to the EU training mission, he said. In the training modules, they proceed with a high degree of professionalism and they are extremely motivated, General Marlow acknowledged.

Strengthening binational relations

During a recent visit to the training facility - shortly after she took office on May 31, 2023 – the Norwegian Ambassador to Germany, Laila Stenseng stressed how important it is for Norway to train the Ukrainian Armed Forces for the legitimate defense of their country. The kingdom, she said, wants to assume security responsibilities in Europe with its contribution. At the same time, she hopes that the integration of her servicemen and women into the German-led EU training mission would lead to a further strengthening of relations between the two countries.

Training at a high level

Major General Lars Lervik, head of the Norwegian Army, is very satisfied with the performance of his soldiers in Germany. Ukrainian trainees reported to him that the training was of a high standard. "I am incredibly proud of my soldiers. They show me how important it is to be personally involved," the Major General mentioned. He added that the Norwegian Army will continue to be involved in the mission. "We have come to stay", General Lervik assured.