Ukrainian forces train in Poland in preparation for the harsh winter war Ukraine-Russia war

This week, several media organizations, including the international news service Reuters, were invited to attend a training organized by soldiers from Poland, France and Belgium. The training took place in Wiederzyn, a Polish village located about 40 kilometers from the German border.

“Most people don’t actually have any military experience, and here they learn how to carry out some basic tactics,” says a Ukrainian soldier. “We learn how to use weapons in urban areas and trenches.”

The training was carried out by the Combined Arms Training Command, which was established as part of European Union efforts to assist the Ukrainian military.

“We will continue to adapt because the situation on the battlefield changes every day,” explained Lieutenant General Michel van der Laan, Director General of the European Union Military Staff.

Since the Russian invasion in early February 2022, the Russians now control nearly a fifth of Ukrainian territory. The Ukrainian counteroffensive, which began in June, has not achieved significant progress so far.

Military operations may become more difficult now with the advent of winter. “Winter is the most demanding war season. It greatly limits our movements and maneuverability, while the enemy clearly sees us through thermal cameras and drones.”

Ukrainian forces are confident that the training received by troops in Poland will help them make progress in the counter-offensive. “Fighting in the trenches is one of the most important elements of this war. I believe that improving skills in this area will help our soldiers succeed on the battlefield,” another Ukrainian soldier said.

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