Russian Women Rally Against Extended Soldier Deployments in Ukraine

A grassroots movement led by women in Russia is challenging the government's argument for keeping soldiers mobilized indefinitely in Ukraine. The movement, which has gained momentum in recent weeks, seeks to stage public protests against long deployments and demand the return of soldiers to their families. While the Kremlin has attempted to suppress anti-war demonstrations, authorities have so far used intimidation and cajoling rather than detention or arrests. The protesters are calling for troop rotations and have created a Telegram channel to organize their efforts. The government has responded by offering more money and benefits to families of soldiers, but many women argue that they need their loved ones back home, not just financial compensation.