The presence of Ukraine's battle-hardened army could strengthen Europe's defense autonomy, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said in an article published in "Politico".
"Ukraine's battle-hardened army could become an alternative to the US military, which currently has over 65,000 troops in the EU, with its largest units deployed in Germany, Italy and Spain. In addition to its practical significance, this could strengthen relations with Washington, as the United States increasingly questions the need for its military presence abroad," Shmygal said.
He added that Ukraine's accession to the EU would mean that the Ukrainian armed forces could form the backbone of a unified European army.
"If they agree to Ukraine's accession, EU countries would not just expand their borders. They would gain reliable defenders with extensive military experience, ready to take the first blow not only from Russia, but also from other possible military and political groupings on Europe's eastern borders," Shmygal said, quoted by Ukrinform.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky earlier told the British newspaper "The Guardian" that without the Ukrainian army, Europe would remain vulnerable to full occupation. Zelensky noted that Ukraine has 110 combat brigades compared to Russia's 220 brigades, while Europe currently has only about 82 combat brigades.