Women’s Role in the Ukrainian Armed Forces: A Transformative Shift

Since the onset of the conflict with Russia in 2014, Ukraine has seen a significant increase in female participation within its armed forces. Although women are not subject to mandatory military conscription, tens of thousands have volunteered to serve. Among them are Yulia Sidorova and Katerina Pryimak, who met on the frontlines during the war in eastern Ukraine. Initially, women were restricted to non-combat roles, but the 2018 law allowing women to serve in combat positions marked a pivotal change. Pryimak, a co-founder of the Ukrainian Women Veteran Movement (UWVM), noted that the organization supports women in the military and advocates for their rights, helping them reintegrate into civilian life.

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The documentary “Cuba and Alaska” highlights the experiences of Sidorova and Oleksandra Lysytska, a lieutenant in the National Guard. Lysytska, who joined the army after the full-scale invasion in early 2022, expressed her desire to defend her homeland, stating, “I just want to live in my country, in my city, in my flat. And to do that, I need to do something.” Both women have found a sense of purpose and safety in their military roles, with Lysytska remarking that being on the battlefield feels less frightening than civilian life in Kyiv.

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The transition from combat to civilian life poses challenges for many veterans. Lysytska described the stark contrast between the structured environment of the battlefield and the unpredictability of civilian life, where she feels a lack of direction during crises. Sidorova echoed this sentiment, highlighting the confusion that can arise during attacks in urban areas. Pryimak emphasized the difficulty of adjusting to a life that lacks the constant danger of the frontlines, illustrating the psychological toll of war.

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Sidorova and Pryimak expressed concern over Europe’s perception of security, drawing parallels between the current situation in Europe and Ukraine’s experience in 2014. Sidorova warned that the “illusion of security is very frightening,” as many in Europe remain unaware of the potential threats posed by Russia. She stated, “If Russia is not stopped, it will go further,” emphasizing the need for vigilance. Lysytska urged European nations to recognize the urgency of the situation, advocating for proactive measures to prevent further escalation.

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The Ukrainian women veterans have called for greater awareness and support from European nations regarding the ongoing conflict. They argue that understanding the realities of war is crucial for fostering solidarity and preparedness against potential threats.

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• “There was a strong feeling that it would all end fast, and I wanted to be part of it,” — Yulia Sidorova, Ukrainian Serviceman

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• “The more women there are in the army, the more comfortable and better each of these women will feel.” — Katerina Pryimak, Co-founder of UWVM

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• “It is scarier to be in Kyiv than to be at the battlefield,” — Oleksandra Lysytska, Lieutenant, National Guard of Ukraine

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• “I am sure that if Russia is not stopped, it will go further.” — Yulia Sidorova, Ukrainian Serviceman

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The evolving role of women in the Ukrainian military reflects broader societal changes and highlights the critical need for international awareness and support in the face of ongoing conflict.

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