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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.
 

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!
 

When I learned about the russian attack on Ukraine, I was serving in the Colombian armed forces and had some experience. I saw on the news and on social media how the Russians invaded this country, how they abused Ukrainians. I thought it was wrong and that’s why I decided to come here as a volunteer.

The first reason why I came to Ukraine is the desire to fight against the injustice that I saw. The second reason is my love for military service. I am proud to wear my military uniform again, now in a different country, and to properly fulfill my military duty.

I contacted an instructor through TikTok who gave me comprehensive instructions and referrals. After that, I bought plane tickets from Colombia to Spain and from Spain to Poland, and from there I arrived in Ukraine by train.

From the first day, the Ukrainians welcomed me very warmly and hospitably. From the first day until now, nothing has bothered me. Both civilians and military personnel have treated us like family. I was especially impressed by the gratitude from civilians. As soon as they see foreign volunteers, they thank them, hug them, meet them and see them off with great love. I have never felt any discrimination in Ukraine.

Here I underwent military training and gained new experience — working with drones, tactical medicine, new weapons that I had not seen before. Assault and defense, territory control, ensuring security — I learned all this here. There is discipline in the Ukrainian army, but a very humane attitude. The brigade in which I serve provides training, accommodation and food. There is an opportunity to take various training courses. Over time, all this will pay off.

I believe that Ukraine will win this war because it is defending itself from the aggressor who is destroying it. The invaders are not only fighting against the military, but also killing civilians – women and children. This is not normal.

I think that before coming here, you need to prepare yourself psychologically, because you will see things that you have never seen in your life. Realize that this is war, not a game. That is why discipline is needed here. Doing your job correctly is what allows you to stand firm.

Glory to Ukraine!
 

I am 33 years old. In Spain I worked in the field of private security. The reason for my arrival in Ukraine was the news about the war. I decided to come here to make my contribution to the defense of this country from aggression.

I have been in Ukraine since 2024, serving as part of the 2nd International Legion. Here I met people from all over the world - Mexicans, Colombians, Americans, English, French, Italians. Maybe I forgot to mention someone. My military specialty is a sniper. In my country there is an animal - a lynx, and it is thanks to its good eyesight that it became a symbol of my work.

We were on the front in Donbas, fighting in the Luhansk region. I operated along the entire trench line. Once I asked the commander if I could operate at a neighboring position where a Ukrainian unit was stationed. The commander allowed it, and since then I have fought side by side with many Ukrainians. For my participation in the battles I was awarded the Iron Cross — one of the highest awards of Ukraine for foreigners.

I wish all the best to those who are thinking of coming to Ukraine and I want to give three pieces of advice.

The first is to realize that there is a war here and be morally prepared for the tests. If you have military experience, it will come in handy.

The second is to listen to instructors and people with experience of being on the front. They are with you not just for that, but to pass on their experience. Thorough military training is a great advantage of the Ukrainian army.

The third is that on the front line you need to listen to more experienced fighters, especially if you are a beginner, and always follow the orders of your commanders. This can save your life.

Ukraine reminds me in many ways of Spain — with its geography, cities, and the character of its people. I really like it.

Ukraine is a wonderful country in which you can live well.

Glory to Ukraine!
 

The reason I came to Ukraine was to support Ukrainians so that they would have a future. I know that russia will not win the war. I have some advice for those who want to come and fight in Ukraine. It is a lie that the russians say.

I worked as a security guard in Colombia for 10 years, but I decided to come to Ukraine because there is an opportunity to gain military experience and make a military career here. On TikTok, I came across a link through which I contacted recruiters from Ukraine. I completed all the necessary documents, received an invitation letter, and now I am serving in the Ukrainian army.

First, I was in the Fourth International Battalion for a month and a half, where I received very good military training. The Ukrainians gave us excellent training: handling weapons, machine guns and grenade launchers, retreat and attack, trench warfare, tactical medicine. Some advice for those who want to come here: first, prepare yourself psychologically for war; second, be physically ready for combat; third, keep in mind that this is a different war than the one we know in Colombia.

Later, I served in the 66th Brigade together with Brazilians, Spaniards and Argentines. The Ukrainians received us wonderfully there. We had no problems, they provided us with everything we needed, the food for the entire unit was very good, and the medical care was excellent. In Ukraine, I have no problems with my salary.

Propaganda by russia lies that we are discriminated against or treated badly in Ukraine. This is not true. Ukrainians always support us. And some civilians, seeing us — Latin Americans who came to fight for Ukraine — thank us right on the street. They are grateful for the support we provide to Ukraine in its just struggle.

I sincerely support the struggle of the Ukrainians, because russia has invaded their country. In trying to invade Ukraine, the russians are doing unacceptable things. Ukrainians are defending themselves so that their children can grow up and have a future in their own country. I know that russia will not win this war, because Ukrainian soldiers are better trained. Ukraine will win, because Ukrainians are defending their land, and the russians are invaders. 

Glory to Ukraine!
 

I am a professional soldier. I took a training course in the Colombian army, and then joined the counter-guerrilla unit. There were wonderful people there, professionals with a lot of experience, who taught me a lot. Over time, I improved my skills, took various courses. I still apply this knowledge in practice, which saves my life. I also worked in special intelligence groups - all this helps me to make a significant contribution to Ukraine now.

Of course, there is a difference between the service in Colombia and in Ukraine. At home, I dealt with one weapon, and here - with much heavier and more powerful. For me, it is good - to learn more about weapons, to learn how to use different types of weapons, from small arms to heavy equipment. There is also such weapons that I cannot tell you about, but believe me - it is the best of the best.

My service in Ukraine began in a training battalion. There are wonderful instructors there - demanding, but fair. This is important, because a soldier must be ready for anything. Later, I underwent training in the 66th brigade — even more difficult. The training here is tough, but it should be so, because war requires endurance. Ukrainians are real warriors; I take my hat off to them. In my opinion, Latin Americans who come here can learn from them not only the techniques of modern warfare, but also determination and fortitude.

The enemy is fighting dirty — using prohibited poison gases. They are hitting civilians, launching missiles at peaceful neighborhoods. Women, children, and the elderly are dying. I saw it with my own eyes. It causes pain and sadness — how can this be done? That is why we are here — to put an end to this.

I believe that Ukraine will win. First, Ukrainians are fighting for their country, for justice; secondly, for their families, for children who are just starting to live; thirdly – for freedom, so that the Russian regime does not dictate how they should live. Ukrainians are fighting for their people, their culture and their ideals. And most importantly – these people put their whole heart into the fight, give everything they have.

I want to emphasize: you should not come here purely for the money. It makes no sense. The army and war here are completely different than in Colombia. What I experienced in Colombia is not even 1% of what is happening here. This is a real war, where life sometimes hangs in the balance. But if you do everything right, you can survive and defeat the enemy.

We are here together with Brazilians, Mexicans, Peruvians, Ecuadorians. Although we are from different countries, here we are one family with Ukrainians.
 

Russia is destroying homes, destroying families. What Russia is doing is mind-boggling! Anyone with common sense understands that this is wrong.

I arrived in Ukraine in May 2022, shortly after hearing President Zelensky’s appeal to foreigners to help defend Ukraine on TV. I decided to come and join the Ukrainian Defence Forces because many of my friends in Canada are Ukrainian.

Before that, I served in the Canadian Armed Forces, was a member of a combat vehicle crew, and after the army I worked as a truck driver. I knew that there would be training camps in the International Legion. But before leaving, I did my own physical training to get back in shape. This turned out to be very important, because the difference between life and death often depends on how far and how fast you can move.

When I arrived, at first, together with other volunteers, we trained a lot. There was both physical exertion and tactical training in the group. I shared my experience from the Canadian army, others from the armies of the USA, Great Britain and other countries. Together we created a single unit.

At first, I served in infantry units, and later in the 21st tank battalion on the Leopard 2A6. As far as I know, I became the first foreigner to command a Leopard tank in Ukraine. I was nicknamed “Leopard Commander”. I remember the first combat mission: we had just left the shelter, and the Russians, seeing us, simply turned around and ran away.

I will give four pieces of advice to those who want to join the Ukrainian army. The first is to save money, do not be wasteful. The second is to study the military units and choose the one where you will be most useful. Third, be humble and listen to veterans. Even without experience, they will help you become effective. And most importantly, you need to be mentally and physically prepared. The conditions of this war are difficult, almost like in the movie “1917”: stress, noise, darkness — everything is oppressive. You need to prepare yourself to endure it.

In Ukraine, what struck me most was the hospitality and gratitude of the people. They came up to shake hands, invited me to their homes for dinner. This made my service even more valuable. By the way, when you come here, pay attention to how great Ukraine is! This is a country with wonderful people, with a rich culture and history!

Ukraine deserves to be defended, making every effort. 
 

I serve as a combat medic. My rank is a junior sergeant. I worked in Ukraine as a civilian, but then I found out how the Russians hit the hospital in Kyiv. It was more like a nightmare. And then I decided: I am a medic and a former soldier, so my place here is among the military, not among civilians.

Before that, I served as a gendarme in Turkey, which is like the National Guard in Ukraine. I completed my service in Turkey in 2022, and in 2024 I came to Ukraine. First, I was sent to the training battalion of the International Legion. There is a really high-quality program there: tactical medicine, assault and defense of trenches, engineering and sapper training - everything you could need. It lasts a month or two, and then the training continues in your unit. Military training in Ukraine is really good. But, if you have no previous experience. After all, training is close to combat conditions - and this is stress, screaming. It helped me that I already had experience.

My decision to be here is due not only to today's events, but also to historical reasons. I am a Turk. And in the past, the Ottoman Empire fought the Russians 12 times. But whatever it was in the past, today the Russians behave like imperialists and terrorists. They attack cities, kill civilians, even children, attack hospitals and schools. The Russians will not win this war, because they have no heart. And the Ukrainians have a soul, they defend their freedom. We are fighting for humanity, we do not attack civilians, hospitals or schools. Therefore, I believe that now I am on the right side.

This war is not a game. I have seen Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan - nothing compares to this war. FPV drones, artillery, mortars are widely used here. This is an armed confrontation between two states with full use of forces. Therefore, for those who want to join, my three pieces of advice: train, train and train again. Pay special attention to tactical medicine.

The Ukrainian army is well equipped with everything you need: helmets, NATO-standard body armor, uniforms, even thermal clothing. The Ukrainian army is not a NATO army, but in some ways it is even better. Here everyone helps each other. I have many friends - both Ukrainians and foreigners. I really like communicating with Ukrainian soldiers who know what they are fighting for.

Ukrainians are somewhat similar to Turks. Here and there they honor traditions, inherent hospitality, popular homemade pickles. They made good coffee in Ukraine, and I also fell in love with Ukrainian borscht. And what struck me most here was patriotism, which you will not see in Europe. Ukrainians have a great love for their flag, culture, and country.

Glory to Ukraine!
 

I learned about military service in Ukraine through social networks, in particular through TikTok. Before coming to Ukraine, I worked as a private security manager in Colombia. Before that, I served 5 years in the army – 3 years as a professional soldier and 2 years of conscription.

My comrades and I went to serve in the 95th Airborne Assault Brigade. We were met very well there, treated very well, on the first day we were taken to a picturesque lake. On the second day we were given uniforms and other equipment, and soon we were given weapons. In the 95th Brigade, the Ukrainian military greeted us very warmly and supported us in everything.

At first, we underwent very thorough military training. We had training in assault and trench defense, very serious training in tactical medicine. I also learned about drones: how to control them, how to dodge them during an assault and in defensive positions. We learned about new weapons that we had not seen before in Colombia. We even learned how to use some of the new weapons.

I came to fight for Ukraine because I don’t like the injustice that Russia has done. I came because I want to protect Ukrainian women and children. Ukraine will win the war because Ukrainians are defending their country from the Russians like lions. Ukraine will win the war because Ukrainians are defending their country like lions. And they want their children to be born in a free country and to have a Ukrainian, not a Russian, identity. And we, Colombian volunteers, will support them until the last invader leaves Ukraine.

I felt very good in Ukraine, almost like at home, because the Ukrainian people are very kind and hospitable. They are very kind and very welcoming to foreign volunteers who fight side by side with Ukrainians.

I would give the following advice to those who intend to come to Ukraine. First, prepare yourself physically and, no less importantly, psychologically. Second, tell your family the truth – clearly explain to them that you are going to war. Believe me, this is really important.
 

I served in the Colombian army for 8 years, participating in various operations. I learned about military service in Ukraine from my comrades who had already fought here. After talking with them, I also decided to join the ranks of the defenders of Ukraine.

At first, I underwent very thorough military training. We were taught how to board landing craft and armored vehicles, how to handle various weapons, long-range and close-range combat, trench assaults and retreats from trenches, night and day attacks, and how to evacuate the wounded.

As a result of my injury, I had to go to the hospital. The care there was good, there was no shortage of medicines, and the doctors were very professional in their work. They treated my wounds well and they healed quickly. Therefore, I have no complaints about the hospital. I could have felt lonely in that place, but I didn’t, because I was talking to my ward neighbors and local civilian volunteers. These very kind people were constantly trying to boost the morale of the wounded, bringing us snacks and various delicious foods, clothes, toiletries, and everything to meet our needs and improve our stay in the hospital.

I will give three pieces of advice to future volunteers who intend to come and support Ukraine. First, prepare yourself physically; second, and no less important, prepare yourself psychologically; third, keep in mind that war is not a toy, you can’t play around and be frivolous here. Guys, keep in mind that war is hard. But victory is worth the effort.

Russia will not win this war because it uses weapons against civilians and does not respect human rights. And the best soldiers in this war are fighting for a free country, which is Ukraine.

Glory to Ukraine!
 

I am 33 years old, I served in the Portuguese army for 7 years. Before coming to Ukraine, I also worked in Switzerland for 7 years in a logistics company. One day, I was lying on the couch at home and watching the news on TV. And it occurred to me that for three days in a row I had seen several ads asking me to help Ukraine. And then I said to myself: “I have to do something for this country”. So after 15 days, I packed my things, left my comfort zone and came to Ukraine.

Here I first underwent military training again. The training in tactical medicine was especially thorough. I would like to note that I had good instructors who taught me well. The training programs are also well-designed, and I learned a lot of useful things during this training. Before coming to Ukraine, I already had some military experience, but I had never dealt with, for example, drones. The widespread use of drones is what impressed me the most in this war. At first, I had to serve with the Colombians. I liked working with them, we became friends. Then there was a unit with the French, and also with the Brazilians. For those who are thinking of coming to Ukraine, I advise you to start physical training at home.

In my opinion, Russia will not win this war, because the truth is not on its side, but on the side of Ukraine. So, no matter how long this war lasts, I will be here to help Ukraine win. I am fighting for Ukraine, because it needs help now. Ukraine deserves freedom, and that is why I will be here, with the Ukrainians, to help them defend their freedom.

Ukrainians are very hospitable and friendly people. They are happy to greet foreign volunteers right on the street. Once I was having lunch in a restaurant. And one family came up to my table to talk and thank me for helping Ukraine. Despite the difficult trials that have befallen them, Ukrainians are very good people. And now is the time when they really need help. We, foreign volunteers, are really needed here. So, if you can come and help Ukraine, then do it.

Long live Ukraine!

Skull served and am serving as an infantryman, I have experience in assault and defense. I am currently the commander of an assault group in a battalion of the International Legion. I have been here for over a year and three months, and I do not regret it. If I could turn back time, I would do it again to gain this experience.

I was a private security guard in Brazil. I followed the war on the news and felt in my heart a very strong desire to come and help the Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom. So I got a passport, bought a plane ticket, then got to Poland, and from there I entered Ukraine by bus. Everything went very smoothly. I had no problems at immigration control. I said that I was going to the International Legion – and they very quickly stamped my passport and wished me a safe journey.

As soon as I arrived in the Ukrainian city of Ternopil, I immediately joined the International Legion and underwent military training. It was something very different from what I was used to when I served in the Brazilian army. Almost nothing of what I had learned before, I used here neither in training nor in combat. Very thorough medical training. Until then, I did not know how to apply a tourniquet. And here it is very important to be able to do it.

I also immediately received a military uniform and various equipment. They gave me everything new in plastic. I was surprised, because before that I had heard that everything had to be earned, everything was done by sweat of the brow and so on. But I had no problems with this and with the weapons either. I did not even think that I would immediately receive a new rifle out of the box. The logistics were also very good. They took us to training by bus, they always prepared food for us.

Overall, it was pretty good, although at first the language barrier was a big problem. That's why I always tried to be around Brazilians, Colombians and other Latin Americans, because we can communicate freely. But we also have friendly relations with Ukrainians. I've never had any problems with them. They are usually very friendly. Ukrainians are very grateful to us for helping them in their fight.

For all those who want to come, I want to say the following. I really appreciate the guy who is a real soldier. He's not someone who comes to war for adventure or big money. No, he comes with kindness in his heart to help Ukraine against the unjust invasion of Russia. It's important for all those who want to come to prepare well psychologically and physically. The front is something we've never seen in our lives, especially Brazilians. We're not used to it, although I lived in conditions of street war in Rio de Janeiro. But here is a completely different full-scale war.