Authors

Discussion

What was the impact of NATO-Ukraine defence reform cooperation on the unexpectedly strong performance of Ukrainian troops at the start of the full-scale Russian invasion in February 2022? Hindsight-based assessments of this question to date have offered conflicting answers. Drawing on interviews conducted with actors involved in NATO-Ukraine defence reform cooperation in Kyiv in July 2021 and relevant documentary material, the paper seeks to contribute to a nuanced assessment of the cooperation’s potential and limits. It suggests that, although its exact impact cannot be measured, those hindsight-based assessments suggesting that NATO assistance had been decisive for Ukrainian military effectiveness are at least questionable. The paper not only narrows the gap in our knowledge about a politically important case. It also highlights lessons for NATO’s ongoing and future military cooperation with Ukraine and, potentially with other partners. Finally, the paper offers insights into ongoing debates about military effectiveness and, ultimately, about why many in the West had underestimated Ukrainian military prowess.