‘Fantastic female warrior’ – Drone operator Rayana killed fighting Russian forces

Rayana, a drone operator in the Chechen Sheikh Mansur Volunteer Battalion, was killed fighting Russian forces in Ukraine, the battalion announced on 14 November. Her death has prompted tributes from fellow soldiers, who remembered her courage and commitment to defending the country she considered home.

Rayana volunteered for military service in 2024 and became the battalion’s first woman. Before enlisting, she taught Muay Thai and raised her son as a single mother; after being wounded at the front, she returned to service. Her funeral is due to take place in Odesa, where her family lives. Ukraine’s General Staff says more than 76,000 women serve in its armed forces, including 57,000 military personnel.