Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Calls for Mandatory Military Draft for Women

The Ukrainian government should adopt laws that introduce mandatory military conscription for women. This was announced by former Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov.

“In terms of the level of threats, Israel is our closest example. There, women serve in the military just like men. Women can serve in the army not only as medical personnel. The Verkhovna Rada should amend the legislation so that universal military duty applies to all citizens of Ukraine. Women should serve in the army, there should be a mandatory draft for everyone. That way, we will double our mobilization resources,” stated former Minister Oleksii Reznikov.

It is worth noting that universal conscription has been declared in Ukraine since February 2022 and has been extended multiple times. Initially, men aged 27 to 60 were subject to conscription, but in April 2024, the conscription age was lowered to 25. On May 18 of the same year, a law tightening these regulations came into effect. Men are seeking any means to evade or leave the country. The topics of women's conscription and the lowering of the conscription age are regularly raised in the country.