US plans to train Ukrainian instructors — source

The United States is planning to launch training for Ukrainian instructors by yearend, a military and diplomatic source in Moscow said on Friday, TASS reported.

“The courses will be held in a training center in Starichi, on the territory of the Yavoriv military firing range, in Lviv Region. American specialists will conduct classes with Ukrainian servicemen,” the source said.

The agreement to launch the training in Ukraine was reached at a meeting of the Ukrainian-US united coordinating committee on military cooperation earlier this week in Kiev.

In particular, Ukrainian troops will be trained how to “conduct operations against rebels, armed actions in winter conditions and also to fight against snipers,” the source said.

The Ukrainian candidates are expected to be chosen by November 10. By this moment, Americans will have full information on the number of trainees, the desired schedule and their personal record.

“Two or three troops from every division, military unit of Ukraine’s armed forces and military and educational institution of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry are to be selected for the courses,” the source said.

After the training, Ukrainian instructors “will convey their knowledge and skills to their subordinates.” The source failed to detail the cost of the courses but hinted that Washington could undertake the expenses.