A French military base located in France has been the site of a significant mission dubbed “Champagne.” This operation, however, is not about celebration but about the training of a new brigade composed of several thousand Ukrainian soldiers. These troops are preparing to enter the ongoing conflict against Russia’s aggression, armed with advanced weaponry supplied by France, including tanks and artillery.
The Ukrainian unit, referred to as the “Anne of Kyiv” brigade, is preparing to return home after an extensive period of military training in both eastern and southern France that has lasted for over two months. This development arrives at a pivotal moment in the nearly three-year-long conflict, as Russian forces have intensified their push to gain control over the eastern Donbas region of Ukraine. Intelligence reports from U.S., South Korean, and Ukrainian sources suggest that approximately 12,000 North Korean troops have also been sent to assist Russian efforts in the Kursk border region, adding pressure on Ukrainian defenses.
Amid these developments, uncertainties loom over Ukraine’s strategic decisions, particularly with the possibility of Donald Trump returning to the presidency. His campaign promises to quickly conclude the war and recommendations that Ukraine might have to concede territory to Russia have left Ukraine and allied nations contemplating the potential changes to the conflict’s dynamics.
The brigade being formed is expected to be a significant asset on the battlefield upon its deployment. Currently, it comprises 4,500 personnel categorized into infantry battalions, along with engineers, artillery teams, and specialized units, as indicated by French military officials. More than 2,000 of these soldiers are in the final stages of training in France, honing their skills before heading back to Ukraine.
Most of the soldiers recently called up for this mission had minimal training prior to their arrival in France in September. Concurrently, additional troops are being prepared in Ukraine to join this brigade, further enhancing its capabilities.
The French military has committed around 1,500 of its personnel to the “Champagne” task force, which is focused on teaching Ukrainian soldiers to operate cohesively and effectively handle the weaponry provided by France. The armaments that the newly formed brigade will include consist of 18 AMX 10 light tanks, 18 Caesar artillery pieces mounted on trucks, 128 armored personnel carriers, anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles, along with various additional equipment.
During a recent training exercise at a French military camp, Ukrainian soldiers showcased their improved skills, which included defending and assaulting a series of trenches designed to replicate those found on the frontline in Ukraine. Access to these soldiers was restricted, preventing journalists from conducting interviews; however, French trainers expressed confidence in the troops’ progress.
“They have improved a lot,” stated a French Colonel, who chose to remain anonymous for security purposes. He elaborated on the soldiers’ readiness, claiming that they have become adept not only at combat but also at maneuvering and utilizing the various types of equipment that they will be using on the battlefield.