Law & Politics editor Michael Keating Dake assesses the diverging responses to the Minister of Defence decision to provide military training to Ukranians in Ireland
The Government has approved the provision of training engagement by the Defence Forces with the European Union Military Assistance Mission (EUMAM) in Ukraine. The decision comes as Ukraine continues to face a devastating Russian invasion, which has lasted over 18 months.
According to a statement made by the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence, cited in a press release on the Department of Defence website, the Government regards the participation of the Defence Forces in this mission as a signal of Ireland's "unwavering support for and solidarity with Ukraine."
The Department of Defence responded when reached for comment on the situation, stating that the Government had approved:
"(...) training to the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the areas of Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC)/Combat Life Saver and Demining & Clearance. The TCCC course was delivered together with German Army medical trainers in Germany, while the Demining and EOD Clearance was hosted in Cyprus from 24 April to 19 May."
"Following the successful delivery of these training modules, the DF identified a number of additional training modules that are within their capacity and capability. In late July 2023, the Government approved the expansion of the areas in which the Defence Forces could provide training to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, which includes basic military training, leadership training and drill instructor training."
The Department claimed that these measures reflect "Ireland’s unequivocal (...) support for the people and Government of Ukraine (...) (Ireland) remains unwavering in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and its right to defend itself against sustained Russian aggression, Ireland supports of the 10-point Peace Formula announced by President Zelenskyy last November and believes that it is for Ukraine to determine the terms, conditions and timelines for any peace negotiations and agreement. Ireland is actively engaged in many of the areas that it covers, including food security, nuclear safety, and accountability."
The move has been received with some controversy, with some opposition TD's describing the decision as a "breach of neutrality." An August report by the Irish Times found that the assistance provided to Ukrainian forces was primarily "non-lethal" in nature, including the provision of training in areas such as mine-clearing, combat medicine, and engineering. However, Irish personnel have reportedly been instructed to provide additional training in military tactics and weapon usage.
The decision to provide training to Ukrainian forces raises questions over the ethical, moral, and legal challenges that arise in the context of foreign policy and defence. Ireland has traditionally maintained a position of military neutrality since gaining independence from British rule. The ongoing controversy surrounding Irish support for Ukraine is not unprecedented, with previous governments having faced criticism for defence policies that arguably undermined Ireland's "neutral" stance in global conflicts. The US military's use of facilities at Shannon airport had previously sparked protests throughout the country.
The ongoing controversy surrounding Irish support for Ukraine is not unprecedented, with previous governments having faced criticism for defence policies that arguably undermined Ireland's "neutral" stance in global conflicts.
As previously reported by the University Observer, Ireland has welcomed tens of thousands of Ukrainian refugees into the country. The state has committed millions to support the country, as it faces a brutal invasion from neighbouring Russia. The questions arising concerning Irish neutrality may create challenges for the Government in the months to come.
Let us know what you think: Is the decision to provide military training to Ukrainian forces a justified expression of solidarity with the people of a beleaguered nation? Or does the move set a dangerous precedent, undermining Ireland's tradition of military neutrality and potentially drawing the country into deadly imperialist wars? Join the conversation by emailing us at editor@universityobserver.ie.