He isn't saying that a woman would not have started the war. So either he claims any woman leader would be so incompetent that Russia would lose the war, or so competent that she would win the war faster (which would according to him be a good thing).
Also the power of drugs. King's books from the 70s and 80s are really great IMO, but he was also high all the time. I mean, glad for him if he's happier sober (I'm sure he is), but his newer books just aren't the same IMO.