I will not return home until we achieve the goal for which we gathered here – to protect the people of Ukraine from russian aggression. And we will win.
I have been in Ukraine since the beginning of 2024. I first learned about the russian aggression against Ukraine from the news and soon from friends who came here earlier. They told me exactly what was happening here and what the situation was. And that is why I decided to come to Ukraine of my own free will to fight against injustice.
From the moment I joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine, I was directly accompanied in terms of documentation and training. From the Recruiting Center to the first training unit, we were accompanied by translators who instructed us how to properly formalize everything, how to get the necessary help. During the exercises, we were instructed how to do everything correctly and safely. Issues of armament and medical support were always accompanied by a translator – from the simplest question to the most serious.
Here I met many people whom I did not know before, but from the moment of our first contact they became like a second family to me. From the very beginning I have had full support and all kinds of help here. Despite the fact that we are not blood relatives – we are like one big family. We speak Spanish, Portuguese, English, Ukrainian. But over time you will be able to communicate well and understand each other without the need for an interpreter. Regardless of nationality, we are here to protect this beautiful country from injustice. We categorically do not accept the injustice that the Russians are doing against the Ukrainian people.
For those who want to come to Ukraine, I advise you, first of all, to talk openly about it with your families. Even if it will be a difficult and tense conversation – still talk openly with your family about what you are doing. They should know about all the risks.
Another piece of advice from me – always try to be calm and maintain a good mood. Thanks to this, you will be able to stay balanced every day, have good physical training, have good conversations. This will allow you to have good relationships with others and work well every day.
Now I give my all to this country and the Ukrainian army to protect the Ukrainians and win. I am here body and soul, and as I said, I will not return until we truly achieve our goal. With this goal, we will stay here, and we will win.
Come and support Ukraine! Together we will win this war.
Glory to Ukraine!
Fantasma
I joined the Ukrainian army and served in the 60th Brigade, 98th Battalion. I was part of the anti-drone unit during the fighting near the city of Lyman in the Donetsk region. Well, it was a tough fight, but thank God we repelled the enemy attack.
The war in Ukraine is very different from the one we saw in Colombia. Because it is a very high-tech war. We didn’t have drones or anything like that back then. And in Ukraine we are constantly faced with different new technologies and new methods of warfare.
What the russian ruler vladimir putin is doing to this beautiful country is very unfair. After all, russia is already the largest country in the world, but it still wants to invade another country for its minerals and other riches, which Ukraine has. But this country believes in God, and God will help us win.
Ukrainians are very friendly people. This is a very beautiful country with an interesting culture. The attitude of Ukrainians towards foreign volunteers is very friendly. So don’t worry about it and come with a positive attitude. The Ukrainian army treats foreign volunteers very well. Here you will first undergo military training. You will also be paid a decent salary that will allow you to provide for your families.
We are brothers in arms with Ukrainians, there are no problems between us.
Glory to Ukraine!
Duende
In Peru I worked on public transport. I learned about serving in the Ukrainian army from friends who had previously been with me in the war in Iraq. After talking with them, I wanted to come to Ukraine and experience this war. I arrived by plane from Peru to Spain, from Spain to Poland, and in Poland I took a bus to Ukraine.
When I arrived in Ukraine, I started military training. It was an experience I had never had before. I was taught how to use different types of weapons. Ukrainian instructors are very good and highly professional, they taught me new tactical techniques of modern warfare. It was a very good experience.
For those who want to come to Ukraine, I want to give advice: first of all, prepare yourself morally for the fact that this is a war, not a computer game. Also, be physically well-prepared and disciplined. After all, your mission here may be associated with a risk to your life.
In autumn, winter and spring, it is important to wear warm clothes here. But when you sign a contract, you are provided with a uniform according to the season, as well as the necessary equipment. You will be provided with everything you need to be able to fulfill the combat mission assigned to you.
Ukrainian military personnel will help you prepare and adapt to new conditions, and in battle they will be next to you, they will cover you. They will always be there.
In the Ukrainian army, I met volunteers from different countries: Brazilians, Colombians, Americans, Poles, Chinese, who are fighting for this country together with us, Peruvians. We like to share impressions, joke, talk about personal things. In my free time, I mostly communicate with my family on the phone, sometimes I walk with my friends. I became interested in the Ukrainian language, and I have already learned some words.
Foreign volunteers support Ukraine in its fight against the russian invasion. It is important to understand that Ukrainians are defending themselves from russian invaders. It is a difficult and long journey, but we will help this country remain free.
Glory to Ukraine!
Tres Dedos
I learned about the recruitment of volunteers for the Ukrainian army from a friend who already served here in the 108th brigade. I communicated with him via WhatsApp, and he gave me step-by-step instructions on how to get to Ukraine and join the Ukrainian army. I had already completed military service, so it was easier for me to undergo training and adapt. I already had some knowledge, but here I was able to expand my knowledge and skills in tactical medicine.
I am fighting for freedom and peace for Ukraine. I believe that russia will lose because it invaded a foreign country. Ukrainians are fighting for their freedom and will not give it to russian aggressors. Despite the difficulties that this country is experiencing, the people here are very united.
I was pleasantly surprised by the way I was received in Ukraine. They accepted me here as their own son and gave me great importance. The Ukrainian army treats foreign volunteers well. Ukrainians are very sincere and friendly people who will gladly share their food with you.
For those who plan to join the ranks of volunteers in the future, I advise: come morally and physically prepared. It is also worth having a keen ear, because you may need it. And, most importantly, maintain discipline and be responsible for your duties - and everything will be fine with you.
If you want to come and take part - do it.
Glory to Ukraine!
Guason
In Colombia, I was a professional soldier in a mobile brigade, fighting against insurgents and helping in the fight against drug trafficking. When the war started here, I followed the news. And through social networks I learned that my friends were already in Ukraine. I met my sergeant Ortiz, and through him I came here. I bought tickets from Bogota to Madrid, from Madrid to Warsaw, and from Warsaw I got to the Ukrainian city of Ternopil.
Service in the Ukrainian army began with basic training, during which we gained new useful experience - we were taught to fight drones. This was not the case in Colombia. We were also taught to handle more modern weapons that we did not know before.
We came here to stop russia, an aggressor state that wants to seize these beautiful lands. Because if russia seizes Ukraine, it will not stop and will continue to attack other countries. This cannot be allowed. Ukraine must win the war, because it is a state that does not surrender. Ukrainians are fighting for their freedom, for their children, who must remain Ukrainians and live in a free country. I believe that russia should not win, because it is an aggressor state.
When I arrived in Ukraine, I immediately felt like a welcome guest. Ukrainians treat us with great respect. We are all like brothers. Our commanders are wonderful people. I have never had anyone treat me badly. Propaganda by russian lies. Here, all foreigners are welcomed well, salaries are paid on time, everything is honest and humane. Ukrainian civilians treat us with great warmth. They hug us and thank us, and try to support us in various ways.
Three tips of advice for those who want to come:
First, be psychologically prepared.
Second, train your body, because physical training is important here.
And third, be ready to see something you have never seen before. Because the war in Ukraine is on a different level.
Glory to Ukraine!
Picharo
In Ukraine, I am fighting for freedom against the injustice committed by the russians against the Ukrainians. That is what prompted me to come here. And no matter how long it takes, I will continue.
I learned about the opportunity to join the Ukrainian army through social networks and went to this website. Previously, I served in the Brazilian army for four years, and then for two years in the French Foreign Legion. Therefore, I already had thorough physical training - running, horizontal bar, push-ups, as well as psychological training.Having come here, I adhere to the same training scheme and the same physical exercises, and all this continues to this day.
I believe that russia will lose because they force their people, lie to them, force people of other nationalities to fight. Instead, a person comes to Ukraine consciously – we left our comfort zone to help. Team spirit, politeness and kindness – that’s what I found here. Regardless of rank, officers and soldiers, people drink coffee together, talk and joke. Such equality struck me.
I communicate a lot with Americans, I like to practice other languages, in particular Spanish. Knowing people of other nationalities is very useful and interesting.
Train, make efforts and focus on what you want. Everyone who trains and is focused is the next step behind him. So keep going, subscribe to the channel, come help – everything will be fine.
One day all this will end, and Ukraine will win.
Teo
Michael from Peru: “We Peruvians love freedom. That's why I'm here - in the Ukrainian Armed Forces.”
There are many children, women, and elderly people who today ask for only one thing - freedom and peace for Ukraine.
I believe that I can help and become part of this story - the one that children will one day learn about in school.
My call sign is Michael. I am from Lima, the capital of Peru. Before the war, I was a professional musician, performing in orchestras and at major events. But after the Russian invasion, I decided to take a break from my career and join the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
I already had military training - I served in missions in Iraq and Afghanistan and underwent training in the US and Jordan. This experience helped me quickly adapt here, in the ranks of the Ukrainian army, and continue training in various units.
In Ukraine, I see pain and strength. People have lost a lot, but they have not broken. I am convinced that Ukraine will stand firm and win.
We Peruvians are peaceful and hard-working people, but when it comes to freedom, we fight to the end.
I arrived in Ukraine in April 2022, almost at the beginning of the great war. Since then, brothers-in-arms from all over the world have been fighting alongside me, including Latin Americans from Colombia, Brazil, and Chile. We share the spirit and heart of a warrior.
You who are reading this now, don't stand aside. Support Ukraine, help in the fight for freedom. Join us.
Glory to Ukraine!
Michael
Picollo is a former paramedic from Colombia serving in Ukraine.
My call sign is Picollo. I have been serving in the Ukrainian Armed Forces for two years. I came here after 12 years of service in the Colombian army, where I was a paramedic. Ukrainian units have shown me a high level of professionalism: there are real tactics, strong team spirit, and mutual respect here. I underwent physical and psychological training, fought alongside Ukrainians, Chileans, and Argentinians, and I am confident that we will win.
Here, we are fighting not only for Ukraine, but for the freedom of everyone who dreams of living without fear.
Here, you will feel true brotherhood, strength, and a purpose worth living for.
Don't wait for history to pass you by - become part of it.
If you are a former military personnel with combat training, consider this challenge: prepare yourself and come - here you will have the opportunity to apply your experience and become part of a true combat brotherhood.
Freedom needs those who have the courage to act.
Glória à Ucrânia!
Picollo
Brazilian volunteer Carmo talks about his service in the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
My call sign is Carmo. That's the name I go by here in Ukraine. I've been in the military since I was 18, so after finishing my service at home, I came here without hesitation.
I had been following Ukraine since the Maidan and knew from the first days of the war that I had to be here.
I served in several units and was stationed in the Kherson and Donetsk regions.
After contacting the Foreigners' Recruitment Center, I was greeted professionally and helped to complete all the stages of registration without any problems. Now Ukraine has become my second home.
In Ukraine, I met people with big hearts — sincere, courageous, and ready to help. I never had any problems here: whenever I asked for help, I always received support. Ukrainians are incredibly sincere and strong people. I am impressed by the spirit of Ukrainians, their determination and faith.
I recommend that anyone planning to come here prepare themselves physically and mentally, train, and most importantly, have a valid passport.
I believe that we will win because I see how Ukrainians are fighting not only for their land but also for the freedom of the whole world.
Glory to Ukraine!
Carmo
I am a retired US Army officer. After 22 years of service, I stayed to work in Germany at Ramstein Air Base. I have been following the russian aggression against Ukraine since 2014. And when the full-scale invasion began, I did not hesitate to apply and came to Ukraine. Because when I saw what russia was doing, I realized: I cannot stand aside.
First, I came to Rivne, where there were already international instructors. We trained the fighters, and also collected equipment, uniforms and shoes, because at first there was not enough of this. A year later, in 2023, I joined a newly created international unit, which was based on volunteers from Belarus. They were the best soldiers I have ever met. We took part in several combat operations. Now I am looking for a unit to join.
I am a soldier of the Cold War (1946-1989). I served in Berlin when we were surrounded by Soviet troops. And today I am again defending these same values - freedom and the right of the people to be free. This war is not just for the freedom and independence of Ukraine. This is a struggle between good and evil, it is a question of values. And I am on the right side.
We see how in russia they are glorifying the crooked Stalin again, erecting monuments to him, returning to Soviet symbols. But we have not forgotten the Holodomor and his other crimes. In the 1990s, I thought that russians had changed. I was wrong - they had not changed. putin is only part of the problem. Even if he disappears - the system will remain. russia will not change until its army knows defeat. We cannot hope for their enlightenment. Their society is built on lies, their children are brainwashed from childhood, so there is no independent critical thinking there.
There are people who simply say: “Peace, peace, we want peace.” But they do not understand what is happening now. Life in an occupied territory, where people are tortured, raped, and children are kidnapped and taken to russia, is not peace.
If Ukrainians do not fight now, their children will fight. There is no alternative. No neighboring country will know a stable world if the russian army does not know defeat in Ukraine. This is understood in Poland, this is understood in the Baltic states. For Europe, the only way to avoid war is to be prepared for it. I am a historian by academic education and I know: if you want peace, you need to prepare for war.
In Europe, you can hear that people are tired of war. This may seem strange to you, because there is no war in their countries. But they are simply fed up with it. They dream of establishing such a peaceful and comfortable past. But it is impossible to stick to the past. All Europeans need to understand what a threat russia will become to them.
For those who are ready to fight for Ukraine, I advise you to learn a little more about this country and its history. Now there is the Internet, so it is not difficult to do it even sitting in the bathroom. Also, of course, prepare yourself. War is not a computer game. There is no reset button here. Make sure that you are physically prepared. And, if you can, try to learn at least a little Ukrainian. People appreciate it if you do.
There are wonderful friendly people in Ukraine. Once I lost my wallet, then a Ukrainian policeman found it, installed my phone number through my gym membership and returned it to me. Ukrainians, young people, have never returned to the Soviet Union. It is simply impossible. And therefore, when they ask me why I am in Ukraine, it is primarily the people. I love Ukraine and I want to be here.
Kotyku
I learned about the recruitment to the Ukrainian army through social networks, in particular Facebook. Soon I contacted a recruiter who helped me go through the process to come to Ukraine and enter military service here. Before that, I was a professional soldier in Colombia for 6 years, specializing in demining.
Training in the First International Legion was a special, very interesting and new experience for me. We trained to attack and defend, mastered tactical medicine. For me, this was important for survival in further battles. At first we used AK-74, but then we were transferred to the Czech Bren-2, we also worked with grenade launchers, radio communications and different types of drones - strike and reconnaissance. I was interested in learning to work with technology, and the Ukrainians were always there, supportive, and patient so that we could master the work with electronic devices.
I felt a call to serve in Ukraine because I saw that this country needed help, because it had been invaded. As a soldier, it hurts me to see how the russians are trying to enslave this beautiful nation. Propaganda by russians is a lie. At first, they said that russia would capture Ukraine in two months. But we have been fighting for more than three years, and the enemy has not achieved its goal. He will not be able to, because Ukrainians have a fighting spirit. They are fighting for their beautiful country, for their people and their future. Ukrainians are very patriotic. I am proud to be here and serve with them.
From the first days in Ukraine, I felt a brotherly attitude, support, and care. Ukrainian commanders are punctual and always attentive. I am pleased to be in this country and serve its people. I also felt a lot of gratitude from the civilian population. Ukrainians are very friendly towards us Latin Americans who came to serve in the Ukrainian army.
I would like to give three pieces of advice to those who are thinking of coming to Ukraine: be disciplined; remember that war is a great danger; always maintain good physical shape. To those who cannot come, I would like to say: you can support us on social networks so that more people will learn about the important work we are doing in Ukraine.
Bomber
I am originally from Chechnya. My country is currently occupied by the Russians. Over the past decades, Chechens have participated in two wars against Russia. And so I already knew that the wars with the Russians were not over.
I served in the French army, then lived in Spain for ten years before coming to Ukraine. First, in the Fourth International Legion, we underwent military training. Before starting, there is a mandatory physical test: running, push-ups, abdominal exercises. If you don’t pass, you either return home or train until you are ready. Then the training begins: tactics, medicine, combat training.
I am fighting for freedom, for my family, for the future of my children. This is not my first war with the Russians. In 1995, when I was 10, they killed over 300,000 Chechens. Our people number only one million, that is, almost half of the population was destroyed. We won the first war, but in 1999 the Russians invaded again. I fought against them then from the age of 15. Because of this, my parents and relatives were forced to leave the country.
I know: when you lose, genocide awaits your people. Abductions, rapes, murders - that's what happened and is happening to the Chechens. The first to suffer are always civilians - women, children, the elderly. The President of Chechnya, Dzhokhar Dudayev, warned more than 30 years ago: the Russians will not stop in Chechnya, they will go further. And he was right - now there is a war in Ukraine. Does anyone think that the Russians will stop here? No! This is a threat to all of Europe. People must wake up and understand: if we do not stop the aggressor today, tomorrow the war will come to your home.
Russian soldiers have no real values - they are forced to fight, and those who refuse are killed. Ukrainians defend their land, their families, their people. That is why Russia will not win. Ukraine has the most advanced drone technology in the world, which is not even in the USA or Europe. And most importantly - Ukrainians have the motivation and desire to be free.
The Russians are trying to change the culture of enslaved peoples, to erase their identity. But in Ukraine, people understand what they are fighting for. Ukrainian military personnel are motivated, civilians help everyone they can.
Ukrainians and foreign volunteers support each other. I have been to many countries, I know several languages, so I easily find a common language with people. The most important thing for everyone who comes here is to know why they are here. This is not a place for those who are looking for money or fame. This is a place for those who want freedom and are ready to fight for it.
Glory to Ukraine!
Grozny