The European Union's current training mission for Ukrainian soldiers, known as EUMAM UKR, is primarily based in Germany and Poland and is set for extension in mid-November.

Ukraine's government formally requested EU soldiers to train its troops on-site in a letter to the EU's chief diplomat, Josep Borrell, dated May 31.

While the EU's diplomatic service has recommended adapting the military training mission for Ukraine, it has not endorsed the idea of sending military instructors directly to the country.

The European External Action Service (EEAS) has warned that EU soldiers in Ukraine could be perceived as active participants in the conflict, increasing the risk of Russian attacks.

A confidential EEAS report outlines both the potential benefits and risks of conducting training missions in Ukraine.

The report also highlights logistical challenges that could impact the safety of EU troops involved in the training mission.

There is a division among EU member states regarding on-site training in Ukraine, with France and several Baltic states supporting the initiative, while Germany and others express concerns about potential escalation.

The report emphasizes the need for high-quality training and equipment for Ukrainian forces, given their manpower disadvantage against Russia.

Discussions among EU foreign and defense ministers regarding the training mission are scheduled for next week, and the topic will also be addressed by EU ambassadors.

Concerns about Kyiv's ability to protect training sites from potential Russian attacks have led to hesitance among some member states.

This initiative represents a significant shift in the dynamics of the Ukraine conflict, which has been ongoing since Russia's invasion two and a half years ago.

Formal evaluations of the training mission will be assigned to EU diplomatic and military bodies in the upcoming discussions.