The “Bucha Witches” is a remarkable all-female volunteer force formed in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This dedicated group of women has taken on the crucial task of shooting down Russian drones that threaten the skies of Bucha, a Kyiv suburb.
The name “Bucha Witches” speaks to their resilience and their unique role in defending their community, proving that women are as capable as men in the fight against foreign aggression. Armed with a combination of modern weapons and century-old Maxim machine guns, the Bucha Witches are playing an essential role in Ukraine’s war effort.
The Rise of the Bucha Witches
The origins of the Bucha Witches are rooted in the devastation caused by Russia’s brutal occupation of Bucha in 2022. The town was one of the first to experience the full force of Russia’s military assault, leading to unimaginable horrors for its citizens.
Russian soldiers allegedly committed atrocities, including the killing of over 450 civilians, many of whom were tortured and raped. In the face of such devastation, the women of Bucha came together to protect their homes and community.
The Bucha Witches were formed out of a sense of duty and defiance. Comprised of women between the ages of 19 and 64, the group was united by a common goal: to defend Bucha’s skies and prevent further destruction by Russian drones. These drones, including the Iranian-made Shahed and Russian Geran drones, have been used to target Ukraine’s infrastructure, causing immense damage.
The Bucha Witches saw this as an opportunity to contribute to Ukraine’s defense, stepping into a role that had been traditionally dominated by men. Their name, “Bucha Witches,” reflects their fierce determination and the mystique surrounding their mission to protect their homeland from the skies.
The Role of the Bucha Witches in Ukraine’s Air Defense
The Bucha Witches play a crucial role in Ukraine’s air defense strategy, particularly in intercepting and destroying Russian drones. Their weapon of choice, the Maxim M1910 machine gun, is a relic from past wars but is still effective at shooting down drones that fly at speeds of up to 150 kilometers per hour.
These drones carry explosive payloads, making them a dangerous threat to both civilians and infrastructure. The Bucha Witches have become experts in using these weapons to protect their town and the broader region from drone attacks.
But the Bucha Witches do not stop at simply manning the guns. They also receive rigorous training to improve their skills in drone detection and defense. Their training takes place in a location they affectionately call “Mordor,” named after the realm of evil in J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings.”
In this challenging environment, the women are pushed to their physical and mental limits. Despite the grueling nature of the training, the Bucha Witches are determined to excel in their duties. Their commitment to Ukraine’s defense goes beyond mere participation – it’s a way of life.
Colonel Andriy Verlaty, their commander, has high praise for the Bucha Witches. He notes that many of the women are as skilled as their male counterparts, if not more so. Their attention to detail, discipline, and ability to adapt to difficult circumstances make them an invaluable part of Ukraine’s defense.
According to Colonel Verlaty, the women even take care to maintain their weapons with a level of precision and care that is often unmatched. This blend of professionalism and personal investment in the cause has earned the Bucha Witches widespread respect within Ukraine’s military community.
Empowerment Through Service: The Motivations of the Bucha Witches
The Bucha Witches are not professional soldiers, but they have been driven to take up arms by the trauma and devastation caused by the war. For many of these women, joining the unit is a form of therapy, a way to channel their grief and anger into something positive.
Valentyna, a 51-year-old mother of three, is one of the most prominent members of the Bucha Witches. She recalls how the war changed her life, transforming her from a civilian into a defender of her community. “My goal is to keep people safe and allow them to sleep peacefully,” Valentyna says, reflecting the deep sense of responsibility that motivates her and her fellow witches.
The sense of community and solidarity among the Bucha Witches is another driving force behind their dedication. Many of the women have lost loved ones or witnessed atrocities during the Russian occupation of Bucha. By joining the unit, they have found a new family, united by a common purpose.
Valentyna describes the group as having “one heart for all,” a sentiment echoed by many other members of the Bucha Witches. This bond gives them the strength to continue their fight, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
One of the most compelling aspects of the Bucha Witches is their ability to balance their roles as defenders with their responsibilities as mothers, professionals, and survivors. Many of the women had no prior military experience before joining the unit. Kateryna, for example, was an art gallery owner in Kyiv before the war.
Initially hesitant to take up arms, Kateryna soon realized that defending her home was the only option. “It’s better to take part than to watch from the sidelines,” she explains. This mindset is shared by many of the women in the unit, who have found empowerment through service.
The Future of the Bucha Witches and Women in Ukraine’s Military
Women’s participation in Ukraine’s military has surged since the Russian invasion. Currently, around 65,000 women serve in the military, with 4,000 in combat roles.
The Bucha Witches are part of this growing force, representing a new era of female empowerment in Ukraine’s defense forces. Their efforts are a testament to the resilience and determination of Ukrainian women, who are increasingly taking on roles traditionally reserved for men.
Some of the Bucha Witches have even signed contracts with the Ukrainian Armed Forces, committing to long-term service. One member of the unit has become a fire support platoon commander, demonstrating the growing influence of women in leadership roles within the military. As Ukraine continues to defend itself against Russian aggression, the Bucha Witches and other female fighters will play a crucial role in shaping the country’s future.
Despite the challenges they face, the Bucha Witches remain committed to their mission. Every time they shoot down a Russian drone, it serves as a reminder of their capability and their importance in Ukraine’s defense. Anhelina, whose fast driving earned her the call sign “Fast & Furious,” sums up the sentiment of the Bucha Witches: “Every time we shoot down a Shahed, it brings me joy and motivates me.”
The Bucha Witches have proven that courage knows no gender. These women, many of whom had no prior military experience, have become an integral part of Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.
Their dedication to protecting their homes and loved ones is a powerful example of resilience in the face of adversity. The Bucha Witches are more than just defenders – they are symbols of hope, unity, and empowerment for Ukraine and the world.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏