The young women enlisting in Ukraine's army: 'In the army, you have to show you've got balls!'

The young women enlisting in Ukraine's army: 'In the army, you have to show you've got balls!'

Lialia, Veronika and Alina are three women aged 19-24 who have signed up to defend their country. They told Le Monde about their daily lives, what motivates them and the challenges they sometimes face working in such a male-dominated environment.

Ukraine offers cash incentives to lure young recruits amid troop shortages

As the war with Russia drags on, Ukraine faces a critical shortage of soldiers. The government has introduced a controversial incentive programme, offering substantial cash bonuses to young men who enlist. Recruits aged 18-24 can receive up to $50,000 for signing up and completing a year of service in the infantry. While this has caused some tension with older soldiers, military officials say the young volunteers are quick learners and highly mo…