Ex-Defense Minister Reznikov advocates for mobilization of women

Former Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov has advocated for extending mandatory mobilization in Ukraine to women. In his opinion, military duty should apply to all citizens regardless of gender, which would allow a significant expansion of the mobilization resource.

Reznikov said this in an interview with Radio Svoboda, answering a question about possible changes in the mobilization system.

The ex-minister suggested looking to Israel's experience, where both men and women serve in the military. According to him, the Verkhovna Rada could change legislation and establish military duty for all citizens of Ukraine.

"Gender equality means that women also have to serve in the army", Reznikov stated.

By his estimation, such a step would allow "doubling the mobilization resource." At the same time, Reznikov does not propose necessarily sending mobilized women directly to the front line.

He believes that women can fill a significant number of military positions in the rear, support, and other areas. This, according to his plan, would allow transferring some men from rear positions closer to the front.

Reznikov also emphasized that such a system should not be introduced immediately with forced mobilization. First, in his opinion, an information campaign is needed to build public support for equal military duty for men and women. Only after that could parliament change legislation and create an appropriate military recruitment system.

This is a personal proposal by the former defense minister, not announced government or Verkhovna Rada plans.

Under current rules, women who are on the military register can be called up for military service during mobilization only on a voluntary basis. In the spring of 2026, the Ground Forces also stated that a mechanism for mandatory mobilization of women was not being prepared.

Based on: Radio Svoboda