In 2014 when Russia's invasion of Ukraine began it was illegal for women to serve in combat positions, but as recently reported, gender roles have rapidly changed in the country. Today women are free to serve in any capacity and are making a difference. (https://www.msnbc.com/know-your-value/out-of-office/war-ukraine-against-russia-how-women-soldiers-are-fighting-back-n1299012)
Our own SWeep and my friend of 10+ years, @Yulianna, is among the brave women of Ukraine who have decided to put on the uniform of their country and defend it's right to exist. I pray every day for her continued safety and that of her comrades in arms. 🙏
Around 25% of Ukraine's current military is made up of women (compared to 17% in the US military). But that 25% didn't come about gradually since the initial 2014 invasion, or since the 2018 law that granted women the right to serve in all roles including combat. No, the surge of women-in-uniform came about since Russia's expansion of its War on Ukraine in February of this year. Since February, the number of women in the Armed Forces of Ukraine has gone from 15% to 25%!
And their stories are incredible. One woman was safely in Poland with her daughter while her husband stayed behind in Ukraine defending their country. When she received word that he had died on the front, she left her daughter in the care of her aunt and returned to help in the fight. "What else could I do?" she said when interviewed about her decision. Indeed ... what else could she do?
I'm pausing today to recognize the great sacrifices made by all Ukrainians in this fight for freedom and liberty, and especially to recognize the contributions of Ukrainian women.
Slava Ukraini!!
To my Ukrainian friends ... I have stood on your border and looked into the eyes of your children fleeing this aggression. I will do all that I can to support you in this struggle. You are paying an innumerable price today in blood and treasure in this battle, but you are winning and you will soon stand among the free peoples of Europe and the World. Slava Ukraini.
This is an incredibly moving post @sarabee1995. I can't really feel any delight about women leaving their families to kill and potentially be killed, though. May this madness of war soon end.
@Longpatrol You are right to be careful here. Many nations frown upon its citizens donating directly to the armed forces of another nation, even if an ally. However, if you need a link to donate humanitarian help to Ukrainian citizens, PM me. :)
@sarabee1995 Sorry – it's not been my intention to get anyone into any trouble. I donated a lot of money (much more than $1000) with the specific purpose to buy arms, using to above-mentioned link. I understand that it's a question of national legislation.
I can't help but have tremendous admiration for the way Ukrainians–including the country's brave women–have fought to defend their homeland. They are an inspiration for people around the world.
I also pray for Yulia's continued safety and that of her comrades in arms. 🙏
May this horrible war end soon, with a resounding Ukrainian victory. 🇺🇦
@sarabee1995 I am daily amazed by the people of Ukraine - I was a soldier for over 20 years and am a combat veteran and I have to say the people of Ukraine are fierce, courageous and a rightfully proud people who should be honored by all.
They are stepping up for their country and other countries are giving a lot, but I kind of wish other countries were there on the ground helping as I think it would end a lot quicker.
@sarabee1995 'Medieval on his ass' I think is the correct term....a la 'Pulp Fiction' ....probably the same result. I couldn't believe such an uneducated comment would or could be made here.
