The UK is training Ukrainian armed forces medical personnel in battlefield trauma care for the ongoing Russian invasion.
Around 50 medics from Ukraine are participating in the initiative. The course is led by the British Army in partnership with instructors from Iceland and the Netherlands.
Combat Medical Training Course
The combat medical training course focuses on lifesaving techniques and related strategies such as heavy blood loss control, fire-related medical care, and critical pre-hospital emergency care.
Other lessons include casualty treatment for injuries caused by small arms and blasts, extraction of patients from fire and vehicles, and triage for mass casualties.
Experience of Russian attacks and requests by Ukrainian medics have also been incorporated into the course.
Throughout the program, trainees are instructed in how to protect their health to maintain their abilities during combat scenarios.
“We have a top-class team of medical instructors, and we are all humbled and proud at having a part to play in helping Ukraine liberate their homeland from this illegal invasion,” Course Director Capt. Phil Williams stated.
“The Ukrainian students are keen to learn and absolutely dedicated to gaining as many skills as they can before returning home to save life.”
“The vast majority have been actively involved on the battlefield and many carry the wounds of war. They are an absolute pleasure to teach, and such is the nature of their recent experience, we learn as much from them as they do from us.”
UK Military Training Support for Ukraine
The course is the first of three planned combat medical training programs that will train about 50 Ukrainian personnel per session.
Since Moscow’s invasion in February 2022, UK defense and allied forces have instructed more than 17,000 Ukrainian troops in frontline warfare and other specialized courses.
“This world-class medical training is another fantastic example of how the UK Armed Forces and our international partners are successfully working together to support Ukraine’s fight against Russia’s illegal and unprovoked invasion,” UK Defence People, Veterans and Service Families Minister Andrew Murrison said.
“Our support to Ukraine will continue for as long as it takes; from providing battle-winning training to donating the equipment and ammunition Ukraine urgently needs.”
The UK alone has provided Ukraine with 4.5 billion pounds ($5.7 billion) in defense supplies. Alongside military aid, the British government is supporting the country’s recovery and reconstruction.
To date, approximately $60 billion in commitments have already been raised for the effort with the help of other countries, industry partners, and international civil societies.