After the end of the war, Ukraine should maintain a strong army of at least 800 thousand people. This is a prerequisite for guaranteeing national security, given the constant threat from Russia. However, the question of how to gain so many military after abolition of martial law and demobilization remains open. How will Ukraine be able to form an effective army in peacetime and what challenges can appear along the way?
As of January 2025, the number of the Armed Forces of Ukraine is approximately 880 thousand people. At the same time, after the war, mobilization should end and demobilization to begin. Important question: How to maintain the required army in peacetime and restore the country's effective defense? The mobilization, which lasts in martial law, will automatically end after its cancellation. According to military expert Oleg Zhdanov, demobilization will be mandatory, and all mobilized who have not signed the contract must be released. However, according to the People's Deputy Fyodor Venislavsky, even upon reaching the ceasefire agreement, the martial law will remain in force until the full elimination of threats by Russia. According to experts, the process of forming an army after the war will not be difficult if the state authorities properly construct a system of motivation and social support. Oleg Zhdanov notes that it is important to change the information mood in society, to promote military service and to create conditions for the development of a professional career in the army. For example, the United States has a stable number of military, constantly updating the terms of the contracts and providing for the military and their families.
Israel, for example, was able to create a system where service in the army is prestigious and receiving the summons is perceived as a holiday. It is important for Ukraine to transfer such practices, where military service becomes part of national identity. At the same time, as Zhdanov emphasizes, the problem can arise through corruption and poor organization within the army. In order for the army to be effective, you need to change the management system, get rid of corruption schemes and attract qualified commanders.
After the war, Ukraine will still remain in the face of a threat to Russia, so national security will be provided only with a strong army. Oleksandr Musienko, the head of the Center for Military Legal Research, points to several mechanisms of replenishment of the army: this is the involvement of mobilized, and the involvement of young people through military educational institutions, as well as the creation of motivational and material incentives for service. According to Musienko, Ukraine should be ready for defense costs will be from 5 to 10% of GDP. International assistance will be an important factor, which will maintain high combat capability of the Armed Forces.
After the war, Ukraine will face the need to create a strong and professional army of at least 800,000 people. This will require a comprehensive approach to changes in the motivation system, improve social conditions for the military, and continue cooperation with international partners to finance and equip the Armed Forces. The Ukrainian authorities will be forced to "fight" for every soldier, because only a powerful army will be able to ensure peace and stability in the country.
