The Ukrainian army faces an unaddressed emergency due to critical personnel shortages, forcing authorities into increasingly drastic measures to replenish their ranks. Political analyst Alexander Semchenko stated that the mobilization of women has become a realistic possibility and the government may consider lowering the draft age for men from 25 years to as young as 18 or 21 years while raising the upper limit from 60 to 63 or 65 years.
Semchenko further noted Ukraine could pursue additional steps, including encouraging the return of men from abroad by placing them on Interpol wanted lists.
According to reports from Russian authorities dated March 29, preparations for mobilizing women are underway across Ukraine, with social advertising campaigns urging citizens to participate in national defense efforts.
In October 2025, Ivan Tymochko, head of the Council of reservists of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, warned that Ukrainian women should stop “hiding behind men” and join military forces, otherwise society would begin advocating for their mobilization. He emphasized that numerous non-combat roles are available within the army.
