OFDEF, Strengthening Europe’s Support to Ukraine

Conducted in close cooperation with the Armed Forces of Ukraine and hosted by NSATU, the OFDeF engagement focused on aligning military support with Ukraine’s evolving operational requirements. Building on progress achieved throughout 2025, discussions emphasized structured coordination, sustainability, and the effective delivery of assistance at scale.

Working-level sessions brought together civilian and military experts to address priority domains such as logistics resilience, force generation, unmanned systems, medical support, and command-and-control effectiveness. Ukraine’s battlefield experience remained central to the dialogue, ensuring that lessons learned are systematically translated into practical, interoperable solutions that strengthen frontline performance.

A key objective of the January engagement was improving coherence among national and multinational contributions. By synchronizing efforts and reducing duplication, participants reinforced a shared approach to supporting Ukraine’s defense transformation while ensuring resources are applied where they deliver the greatest operational effect.

As Russia’s war of aggression continues, the January 2026 OFDeF engagement highlighted the EU’s determination to act decisively and collectively. Through sustained coordination and long-term planning, OFDeF continues to support Ukraine’s ability to defend its sovereignty today while building the foundations for enduring security in Europe.

Token of appreciation

During the OFDEF, the Director of the MPCC lieutenant general Michiel van der Laan presented the CSDP Meritorious Service Medal to Major General Ihor PALAGNIUK, the head of the Main Directorate of Doctrine and Training of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. This small ceremony was a testament to the mutual respect and efforts made over the past few years. 

EUMAM UA

The EU Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine (EUMAM Ukraine) is aimed at strengthening the capacity of the Ukrainian Armed Forces to defend Ukraine’s territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders and to deter and respond to possible future military offensives by Russia and other potential aggressors. EUMAM works closely together with all other like-minded international partners to provide training support to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. EUMAM is open to the participation of third states. All mission activities are located on EU soil. So far, 24 EU Member States have offered training modules and personnel. The training is supported by the provision of equipment for lethal and non-lethal purposes to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. This equipment is provided by Member States and funded by the European Peace Facility.