Ukraine and the USA discussed further strategy for the Armed Forces of Ukraine during talks in Geneva
The Chief of Staff of Ukraine, Andriy Hnatov, reported that during the talks in Geneva, the Ukrainian and American sides discussed the issue of the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s personnel in peacetime, without mentioning their reduction.
Andriy Hnatov explained in an interview with LIGA.net that the discussion focused on reviewing the peace plan and plans regarding the number of personnel in peacetime. According to him, both sides emphasized the importance of having a well-equipped and capable army as the best guarantee of security for Ukraine.
Hnatov noted that understanding what the Ukrainian army should be like will influence measures to encourage servicemen to remain in the ranks after the end of hostilities. This issue requires a comprehensive approach from various institutions, as it touches on the number of troops, their financing, social guarantees, and other aspects. Hnatov noted that the General Staff has a developed working document currently under review.
In the initial version of the peace plan proposed by the USA, it was envisaged that Ukraine would relinquish Donbas and part of its armaments, reducing the Armed Forces to 600,000. However, according to Financial Times, negotiations in Geneva shortened the mentioned plan from 28 to 19 points, although which specific provisions were removed have not been officially disclosed.
Let us recall that on November 25, former US President Donald Trump stated that the parties are close to reaching an agreement. He also reported sending a special representative to Moscow for further negotiations, while another representative will head to Ukraine.
