The Deputy Minister of Defense of Ukraine made this statement during a meeting with Canada's Ambassador for Women, Peace, and Security, Jacqueline O'Neil.

"We continue to implement a policy of engagement, development, and retention of human capital, with an important component being the principles of gender equality in the military. Legally, we currently have no barriers. Now our task is to practically implement these norms. It's not just about providing female uniforms and creating living conditions. We have formulated a policy on the use of gender-sensitive language, launched leadership courses for women in the military, and increased the level of control over violations of women's rights in the military," emphasized Natalia Kalmykova.

According to her, as of January of this year, the total number of women in the Armed Forces of Ukraine is 66,900 people, of which 47,200 are servicewomen. At the same time, 6,500 are in leadership positions, and about 4,000 are on the front lines.

"We are constantly learning from you and understand how difficult it is to carry out reforms during wartime. We want to ensure that Ukraine receives the best support in its efforts to implement the Women, Peace, and Security agenda. We are your partners, you can count on us," noted Canada's Ambassador for Women, Peace, and Security, Jacqueline O'Neil.

Natalia Kalmikova and Jacqueline O'Neil also discussed expanding cooperation between Ukraine and Canada in ensuring gender equality principles in the military and medical support for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, including through diplomatic efforts.