68,000 women serve in Ukrainian military, 5,000 in combat zones

Women represent 8% of Ukraine's 880,000-strong armed forces.

Sep 28, 2024 - 16:00

The total number of women in the Armed Forces of Ukraine stands at 68,000, as stated by Liudmyla Darahan, State Secretary of the Ministry of Defense.

At the beginning of 2024, President Zelenskyy reported that the total strength of the Armed Forces of Ukraine was 880,000 personnel. Consequently, women make up approximately 8% of the military.

Darahan clarified that 48,000 of these 68,000 women are active servicewomen, with about 5,000 serving directly in combat zones.

“Today, women are present in all areas – supporting the home front, working in demanding positions, and fighting in the ranks of the Armed Forces. They demonstrate that individuals should be evaluated based on their capabilities, effectiveness, and intellect, not their gender,” Darahan emphasized.

The official also highlighted improvements in equipment provision for servicewomen. She noted that in 2023 summer military uniforms for women were introduced, expanding beyond the previously available dress uniforms.

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