Retired Lieutenant General Ioannis Baltzois told Sigma’s “Protoselido” programme that Russia rejects the latest version of the US peace plan. Moscow objects because critical elements concerning its interests – particularly territorial arrangements, the size of the Ukrainian army, and security guarantees – have been removed.
Dispute over Ukrainian army size
Baltzois emphasised that the original plan allowed a Ukrainian military of 600,000 troops, a number Russia had accepted. European leaders now insist on 900,000.
He noted that war-ravaged Ukraine cannot afford to maintain either figure and that Europe lacks the resources for such prolonged military support.
“Unfortunately, the ‘leaders of chaos’ that Rubin referred to still dominate Europe. That is exactly what he called them,” Baltzoyis said.
Europe feels excluded
According to the retired general, Europe feels sidelined because it was not involved in the early negotiation stages.
Elections within 100 days
The plan reportedly includes elections within 100 days, a development that would remove President Zelenskyy from office and could elevate new figures such as Defence Minister Rustem Umerov.
Allegations of internal repression
Baltzois also cited claims from journalists and former Zelenskyy associates about domestic repression, political persecution, and restricted freedom of expression in Ukraine, including references to “70,000 political prisoners”.
Also read: Putin calls for measures to strengthen Russian identity in Ukraine regions
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@sigmaliveen.
