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Politics

04th Jul 2021

Anger as female soldiers in Ukraine made to march in heels

Kieran Galpin

Armed with machine guns and a killer pair of heels

Ukraine is in the news again, not for their monumental battering in last nights Euros, but a military choice.

Ukraine’s defence ministry opted for a questionable choice in attire for its female military members. Instead of combat boots, which protect and comfort the wearer, the military opted for a stylish yet completely ridiculous stiletto heel.

Published to the military Facebook page, the image depicted female army graduates marching for the anniversary of Ukraine’s independence. The march happened in the Ukrainian capital, Kiev, on Friday. Undoubtedly, it would have been tremendous to beat England and celebrate independence in the same week.

“Today, for the first time, training takes place in heeled shoes.

“It is slightly harder than in army boots but we are trying,” said Cadet Ivanna Medvid.

More than 13,000 women have fought against Russian-backed separatists in the east of the country, but many have criticised the footwear decision claiming it makes a mockery of their hard work and dedication.

However, Ukraine has responded by saying its military follows a strict dress code:

“There is a field uniform of clothes, casual and parade. Field uniforms are on the ground and in the trenches, casual – in everyday activities, and the parade – well, they have already guessed it themselves. This year on the Independence Day of Ukraine will be held by female soldiers in front of clothes. Handsome and strong.”