I was a professional soldier in Colombia, I served for six years, then I worked for three years in a security company. And then I retired and started my own business. Watching the news, I realized all the injustice that russia was doing to Ukraine. And this was one of the reasons why I decided to come and support the Ukrainians.

My service in the Ukrainian army began with military training. The Ukrainians welcomed us very well. We were taught to handle different weapons, we practiced interacting with armored vehicles in offensive and defensive combat, and we also received training in providing first aid.

We are fighting against an invader, which is russia. It invaded Ukraine, and it doesn’t care that not only soldiers are dying, but also children, women or the elderly. It doesn’t care that it brings devastation and destruction. But I believe that Ukraine will win even though russia is a much larger country.

I was very impressed when I saw how many cities and villages the russians destroyed. But I was also pleasantly surprised by how warmly the civilian population welcomed us, the Latin American volunteers who came to fight for Ukraine. The Ukrainian and Colombian peoples have in common that we are purposeful and resilient, and we do not give up easily.

To those who want to come and fight for Ukraine, I want to give you one piece of advice: gentlemen, think very carefully about your families. After all, this is war, not a walk in the park.

I served mostly with fellow Colombians, but also with Chileans, Brazilians, Argentines and Peruvians. Despite the language barrier, our interaction with the Ukrainian military is good because, for better or worse, they adapt to our language, and we to theirs. And even when we lack language skills, we communicate with gestures.

Now Ukraine needs help and is waiting for volunteers who are ready to fight for freedom against injustice.

Glory to Ukraine!