EU Supports Ukraine in Strengthening CBRN Crime Response Capabilities

Strategic Insights -

The European Union has been actively supporting Ukraine in enhancing its response to complex security challenges, particularly with regards to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) materials. The risk of accidental releases, sabotage, or intentional use of hazardous substances has intensified, necessitating a robust legal framework and operational response. To address these challenges, the EU has been providing Ukraine with support in strengthening its legal, forensic, and institutional capabilities to investigate and prosecute CBRN-related crimes effectively.

Key Takeaways:

  • The EU's "From CBRN Crime Scene to Courtroom" project, implemented under the EU CBRN Risk Mitigation Centres of Excellence, aims to strengthen Ukraine's capacity to investigate and prosecute CBRN crimes.
  • The project has been supporting Ukraine in building its legal and forensic capabilities since 2025, with a focus on providing a comprehensive, scenario-based training programme for prosecutors, investigators, forensic specialists, and legal experts.
  • Sixteen Ukrainian professionals were certified as national trainers during a Train-the-Trainer (TTT) course held in June 2025, equipping them to deliver and adapt the material nationally.
  • The "From CBRN Crime Scene to Courtroom" initiative provides a structured approach from incident to prosecution, covering five interlinked modules, including Tabletop Exercise, CBRN Criminalisation Workshop, Building a Case for Prosecution, Mock Trial / Moot Court, and Train-the-Trainer.
  • Ukraine played a central role in the project's pilot phase, working closely with Moldova to test and refine the methodology.
  • Over 30 tailored training modules are being integrated into national educational programmes, laying the groundwork for sustained expertise in managing and prosecuting CBRN incidents.
  • Between 2025 and 2027, Ukraine will roll out advanced training sessions across the country, targeting prosecutors, judges, investigators, and law enforcement professionals.

Statistics:

  • Sixteen Ukrainian professionals were certified as national trainers during the TTT course in June 2025.
  • Over 30 tailored training modules are being integrated into national educational programmes.
  • Between 2025 and 2027, Ukraine will roll out advanced training sessions across the country, targeting 1,000 prosecutors, judges, investigators, and law enforcement professionals.

Sources:

  • (https://cbrn-risk-mitigation.network.europa.eu/news-1/moldova-strengthens-capacities-investigate-prosecute-and-adjudicate-cbrn-crimes-2025-02-04_en)
  • (https://cbrn-risk-mitigation.network.europa.eu/index_en)
  • (https://cbrn-risk-mitigation.network.europa.eu/news-1/moldova-strengthens-capacities-investigate-prosecute-and-adjudicate-cbrn-crimes-train-trainers-2025-06-27_en)
  • (https://cbrn-risk-mitigation.network.europa.eu/eu-cbrn-centres-excellence/network/south-east-eastern-europe_en)
  • (https://unicri.org/)