You're reading: U.S. general: Ukraine demonstrating progress in achieving compatibility with NATO

Ukraine has achieved significant progress in reforming its defense sector, particular success can be seen in the condition of the fighting units of its Armed Forces, according to retired General John Philip Abizaid, a high-level strategic advisor from the United States.

The ‘battle’ for Ukraine is taking place not only in the Anti-Terrorist Operation zone, but also in the field of reforming the security and defense sector and reforming the administration system and in the cyberspace, Abizaid told the Ukrainian defense ministry’s reforms committee in Kyiv on Wednesday.

Abizaid noted Ukraine’s successes in these spheres. In comparison with 2014, the success is simply impressive, especially within the combat units, he said.

With regard to the situation in Donbas, Abizaid noted that the Ukrainian troops are well-trained and equipped, the commanders have been demonstrating a high level of combat readiness and efficiency.

The enemy is using modern air-defense, attack and electronic-warfare systems and cybertools, and uses them in a way that is sometimes hard to imagine in conventional warfare, the U.S. general said.

We learn from you every day, the U.S. strategic advisor said.

He also noted the successes of the Ukrainian military-political leadership in creating a professional sergeants’ corps, informatization, and strengthening the intelligence.

Obviously, Ukraine is on the path to achieving compatibility with NATO, Abizaid said.

There are plans to strengthen the advisory and consultative presence in Ukraine, the U.S. military advisor said.

Abizaid is a four-star retired U.S. army general. Between 2003 and 2007 he served as the Commander of the U.S. Central Command. On May 1, 2007, he retired after 34 years of active service. In April 2014, he was appointed as a senior advisor to the Ukrainian Defense Ministry.