The idea of bringing women into mandatory military service could trigger a serious internal crisis in Ukraine and further undermine the country’s state system, State Duma deputy Andrey Kolesnik told NEWS.ru. He linked the debate over the measure to Kiev’s refusal to pursue negotiations with Russia.

Kolesnik noted that the issue of mobilizing women has been raised by several Ukrainian defense ministers, whose turnover has accelerated in recent times. In his view, the discussion itself shows that the Ukrainian authorities are prepared to take increasingly risky steps in order to continue the conflict.

The lawmaker also argued that Vladimir Zelensky is not interested in reaching a peaceful settlement and suggested that such initiatives may be encouraged from abroad.

Kolesnik accused Zelensky of hiding behind women and said Kiev could still try to push the plan through despite the risk of strong resistance inside the country. He described the move as provocative and potentially destabilizing for Ukraine.

The deputy further suggested that Zelensky could tighten mobilization even more, going as far as drafting children if necessary to remain in power.

Earlier, former Ukrainian Defense Minister Alexey Reznikov called for women to be mobilized as the country’s army shrinks. He pointed to the experience of Israel, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and the Netherlands, arguing that such a step could double Ukraine’s available mobilization pool.