In the outskirts of Bakhmut, Ukraine, a 32-year-old Ukrainian artillery platoon commander known as Witch, rocked back and forth in a beat-up Lada, navigating through a thick forest to reach a small village near Russian lines. The moonlight revealed destroyed houses with shattered roofs, a haunting reminder of the ongoing conflict.
Witch, a former lawyer, joined the military with her family after Russia invaded in 2022. Her combat experience began in the outskirts of Kyiv, where she learned about weapons systems on the fly. Since early 2023, she has led her platoon in the 241st Brigade near Bakhmut, overseeing artillery systems with determination to continue serving even after the war ends.
As Ukraine faces intense Russian assaults, more women like Witch are enlisting in combat roles. The number of women in the Ukrainian Armed Forces has increased by about 30 percent since the war began, with roughly 4,000 in combat positions. These women work as combat medics, gunners, snipers, tank commanders, and more, contributing to the defense efforts.
However, challenges remain for women in the military, including a lack of properly fitted gear and hygiene products. Organizations like Veteranka and Zemliachky have stepped in to provide support. Additionally, gender-based discrimination and inequality persist, particularly among senior commanders who may oppose women in combat roles.
Despite these obstacles, women like Tesla, a former folk singer turned commander, continue to lead their units in the face of danger. Tesla faced the difficult task of sending her soldiers into battle, knowing the risks they faced. The war has taken a toll on many, with some soldiers wounded or captured in the line of duty.
As the conflict rages on, women like Foxy, a former barista turned gunner and medic, feel a sense of purpose in their combat roles. Prepared for years for the possibility of war, they are determined to contribute to Ukraine’s defense efforts. Despite the challenges and dangers they face, these women stand strong on the front lines, ready to defend their country.