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Women in Ukraine's army fight Russia and sexism

Iryna Ukhina | Pablo Foley Elias
November 7, 2025

Sisters Yana and Nastya serve in Ukraine's army, fighting against Russia's invasion of their country. They told DW that their bond helps them endure the challenges of war and stereotypes about women in combat.

https://p.dw.com/p/53EyN

Yana and Nastya are fighting against Russia's invasion as soldiers in Ukraine's army.

Yana commands a squad near Pokrovsk, while Nastya manages personnel in an artillery unit.

Despite their different roles and temperaments, they support each other through shelling, drone threats and prejudice against women in uniform. 

DW News anchor Pablo Foley Elias wears a suit as he looks into the camera
Pablo Foley Elias A news anchor and reporter at DW News in Berlin.
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