Since the 1990s, NATO has been cooperating with Ukraine. The Cooperation intensified in 2014 following Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea and support for the self-proclaimed breakaway republics of the war in the Donbas region. During this period, the Armed Forces and NATO have supported Ukraine with the implementation of reform initiatives, training of personnel and the introduction of NATO standards.

Defense support for Ukraine changed in nature following Russia's invasion in February 2022, in which donations of equipment played a crucial role.

Before the invasion

Since 2016, the Armed Forces has contributed in solving a number of core tasks related to the development of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. In this context, Danish instructors, advisers, officers and interpreters have assisted with basic training and advice in the field of reform and education in the framework of the Canadian-led Operation Unifier and the British-led Operation Orbital. The advice and support has taken place at the Armed Forces' Headquarters, educational institutions and in operational units. Here, Ukrainian officers, commanders and privates have received training in everything from first aid, instructor training and Special Forces training to the fight against corruption and the implementation of NATO standards in staff work.

The current situation

Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Denmark continues to support Ukraine and NATO's enhanced presence in the region. The Defense donations of anti-tank weapons, security equipment, first aid equipment and a mobile hospital support the Ukrainian units' defense of Ukraine. Danish instructors, advisers and interpreters are ready for redeployment when it becomes possible to resume work in Ukraine.