Denmark plans to dispatch unarmed troops to Ukraine for training, Danish Army Chief Peter Boysen told broadcaster TV 2 on Wednesday. “The purpose is to let Danish soldiers learn directly from Ukrainian soldiers, especially in the field of drone warfare, where Ukraine has gained a lot of experience due to its conflict with Russia,” Boysen explained.
The Danish soldiers will not be engaged in combat and will be deployed far from the front lines, probably in military training centers in western Ukraine. Boysen said the training mission could start as early as this summer.
Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen did not comment on the initiative, citing that it is under military jurisdiction, according to Ritzau news agency.
The statement has been condemned by Russia. Speaking to TV 2, Russian Ambassador to Denmark Vladimir Barbin cautioned that deploying Danish troops in Ukraine may involve Denmark more in the war and lead to “uncontrolled escalation.” Barbin also sent a chilling warning that Danish soldiers would be vulnerable, claiming all military installations in Ukraine training bases are deemed valid targets by Russia.
In spite of the criticism, Denmark is still one of Ukraine’s strongest supporters. A founding member of NATO, Denmark has been a consistent supporter of Kyiv with military assistance, financial support, and training initiatives since Russia began its all-out invasion more than three years ago.
The deployment of unarmed Danish soldiers for training represents an increasing tendency among NATO countries to further co-operation with Ukraine while avoiding direct military confrontation with Russia. It also illustrates the expanding influence of technology and tactical know-how on contemporary warfare.
The move, though limited in scale, signals Denmark’s intent to continue its support for the defence capacity of Ukraine during prevailing tensions in the region.
