Visit to Vinnytsia: searching for enhanced cooperation opportunities in the regions
July 19, 2024
The EU Advisory Mission (EUAM) delegation, led by Head of Mission Rolf Holmboe, visited Vinnytsia Oblast on 15-16 July, focusing on fact-finding and needs assessment. The visit aimed to explore possible ways to cooperate and assist, particularly in training and sustainable initiatives with the National Police of Ukraine (NPU) and the National Guard of Ukraine (NGU). This mission underscores the importance of assessing and addressing current needs to improve the capabilities of local law enforcement agencies.
During the visit, the delegation met with key regional figures, including Deputy Heads of the Vinnytsia Regional Military Administration and Head of the National Police in Vinnytsia. The discussions revolved around identifying training opportunities and assessing the needs for enhancing NPU-NGU cooperation.
Discussions with Deputy Heads of the Vinnytsia Regional Military Administration
In a meeting with Deputy Heads of the Regional Military Administration, heads of law enforcement agencies and educational institutions, Rolf Holmboe expressed EUAM’s commitment to supporting Vinnytsia’s resilience and development. He acknowledged the significant challenges Vinnytsia faces because of the war and reiterated the Mission’s dedication to providing targeted support to help rebuild and enhance the capacity of local law enforcement agencies. “We have two main areas of activity. One is to support Ukraine in implementing civilian security reforms for Ukraine’s early accession to the EU. We also provide assistance to law enforcement agencies, including training for the National Guard and the National Police,” said Head of EUAM Ukraine.
Andriy Kavunets, Deputy Head of the Vinnytsia Regional Military Administration, thanked the EU Advisory Mission for its firm and consistent support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and for its efforts to support civilian security sector reform. “Assistance is provided both at the national and regional levels. We understand that civilian security sector reform is important for our country, especially in times of war. And, of course, it is a prerequisite for Ukraine’s full accession to the EU,” Andriy Kavunets stated.
During the meeting, the parties discussed EUAM’s mandate and agreed on opportunities for further cooperation. They also talked about support for the MIA higher education institutions located in Vinnytsia region, training for the National Police, and practical assistance to the civilian security sector. Kavunets assured the European partners that Vinnytsia region is ready for comprehensive cooperation.
Dialogue with Vinnytsia Police Chief
The delegation also held fruitful discussions with Colonel Yuri Parkhomenko, Head of the National Police in Vinnytsia. The focus was on identifying specific areas where EUAM support could be most useful. The Head of Mission noted the positive results of recent stability policing courses and stressed the importance of expanding these efforts.
Colonel Parkhomenko elaborated on the current needs of the Vinnytsia police. These include advanced training programmes and improved equipment to carry out their duties effectively. He expressed his gratitude for the EUAM’s continued support and cooperation.
Dialogue with Relocated Educational Institutions
On the second day of the visit, members of the EUAM delegation met with the leadership of the National Guard Academy and the State University of Internal Affairs, both relocated from Kharkiv to Vinnytsia. Discussions focused on possible joint training programmes and the integration of gender perspectives in training modules. Rolf Holmboe praised the professionalism and dedication of the academies in Vinnytsia and expressed his willingness to explore ways to support their training initiatives.
Future Cooperation and Support
By fostering closer cooperation and providing tailored support, EUAM aims to create a more resilient and secure environment in Ukraine. The delegation’s visit is an important step towards achieving these goals. Head of EUAM Ukraine Rolf Holmboe reiterated EUAM’s determination to work closely with Ukrainian partners to ensure sustainable development and effective training programmes. He underlined: “EUAM’s efforts will focus on improving the operational capabilities of the NPU and NGU through targeted training and provision of the needs-based resources. This will not only help rebuild the region’s resilience but also strengthen the rule of law and public safety.”
