Shortly after the start of the Russian invasion, I saw on the news an appeal by the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky to foreigners to come and join the ranks of the Ukrainian army. And at that moment, an acquaintance of mine, who had already been to Ukraine, told me about the International Legion.
When I found myself in Ukraine, the first thing I was very impressed with was the high level of military training, especially in tactical medicine. In general, the Ukrainian military is very inventive, they use tactics. And it was very impressive to know the different combat techniques and how they do it. Here you need to understand that this war is progressing, and its techniques have changed since its very beginning.
The International Legion was the first place I came to. I was impressed by the high level of support here. I was provided with everything - from socks and warm underwear to modern protective equipment. I do not expect to receive as much equipment as I will receive.
But no less important is your mental readiness for war. When I arrived in Ukraine, I knew that I was facing an enemy army with the most modern weapons, tanks, planes and helicopters. This is not a fight against terrorists somewhere in the desert or in the mountains. This is a real war. Therefore, it is very important to be psychologically prepared and understand what others will face. This is not paintball - nothing like that!
I have a very good experience of serving in various units of the Ukrainian army. My comrades-in-arms always helped me if there was a serious problem. I never had a misunderstanding with other soldiers on the front line. They helped me and received help from me. Many of my combat comrades are Ukrainian military, and I maintain contact with most of them via social networks or WhatsApp. Here I have never had any problems with communication.
To those who are hesitant, I want to say the following. It doesn’t matter who you were before. What matters is whether you are ready to join the Ukrainian Defense Forces. If you come here with a good heart and good intentions, there will always be a worthy place for you in the ranks of the Ukrainian army. Do it.
Glory to Ukraine!
Bagpipes
We are fighting for a country that has been attacked. The Russians have invaded Ukraine and are claiming that Ukrainians are bad. But I believe that I am fighting against evil and on the right side.
I serve in a special unit and am engaged in intelligence. I serve with many other foreigners — Chechens, Koreans, Japanese, Mexicans… They are very good people for performing difficult tasks.
The Ukrainian army has a very good support system. They communicate with us in our language through translators and give us everything we need. In the summer — one uniform, in the winter — another. Weapons, ammunition, equipment, food, drinking water — everything is in abundance.
For those who want to come here, I advise, first of all, to realize — this is not a game. There is a full-scale war here.
Relations with Ukrainians are very good. Of course, we have different languages and cultures, but Ukrainians inspire respect in us. We respect them because they are a courageous and warlike people. Little Ukraine is fighting against big Russia. Many people said at the beginning of the war: in a month or two the Russians will crush them. Instead, Ukrainians have been holding on for four years. They are making History.
I think that many other countries would like to have a president like the one in Ukraine. He set a worthy example to follow.
Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the heroes!
Guerrillo
My mother is Italian and my father is French. In addition to their languages, I also speak English, Spanish, Portuguese and a little Ukrainian. The nickname “Fox” was given to me in the International Legion by a Georgian volunteer. From that moment on, I became “Fox” — I’m happy with it.
I learned about the service in Ukraine through social networks — I watched videos on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook. There’s a lot of content there.
I used to serve in the French army. But in Ukraine now, technology is better, it’s a completely different level. Ukraine is in a full-scale war. That’s why everything is changing, adapting and moving forward here quickly. One of the main directions is drones. To become a drone operator, you first need to understand the role of drones in war. Drones are very useful — whether in the offensive or in the defense, drones deliver water, food and everything necessary to the front line. Because if you drive a car, you can be hit, but with drones it is faster and without risk to life.
A new branch of the Armed Forces has been created in the Armed Forces of Ukraine - the troops of unmanned systems. We are forming new units and looking for people who have already joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine and want to study to become drone pilots. But first of all, when you join the army, you need to go through basic training. Then it is important to learn to work with other units, to perform combat missions accurately and qualitatively. Your work - the work of one person - can affect the entire battalion and the success of future missions. Units in positions, lines of defense - all this is safe, because the drone operator performs his task quickly and qualitatively.
Now I am undergoing rehabilitation after being wounded. When I was wounded, the Ukrainian military immediately applied bandages, homeostatic, a tourniquet - everything very quickly. And within 5-10 minutes I was evacuated. One guy picked me up and took me to the first medical point - to check the wound. Then I went through three more medical stations — for additional checks, getting medicine, new homeostatic bandages to make sure there were no fragments.
After that, I was sent to a hospital in Kharkiv, where they removed several fragments from my body. I stayed in Kharkiv for 4 days, after which I was sent to Khmelnytskyi, where I underwent a number of other examinations. There, a professor, a doctor, performed the operation on me. We spoke English. In hospitals, I spoke English or Ukrainian with the doctors, because I understand it a little. Some Ukrainians do not speak English, but communication was still simple.
Everything was very good in the new hospital: medicines, antibiotics — if you need something, they bring it to you right away. The medical examination and everything else was done very quickly. And if, as in my case, an operation was needed — everything was done very quickly. The surgeons are very professional.
To the guys who plan to come to Ukraine and join the ranks of the Ukrainian army, I want to advise you – first of all, look for more information. Because there are many options here to realize yourself in various specialties. If you have no experience, there is training for combat medics, tactical training, training with all types of weapons and training to become drone operators. There are many options. It is important to be morally and physically ready for the tests, because war is no joke.
Fox
I learned about the war in Ukraine from the news and social networks - and I realized that I could not stay away. I wanted to support Ukraine, because I believe that no country should live under the oppression of another, each should be free. That is why I decided to come and support the Ukrainians in their struggle for freedom.
I served in the Colombian police for 21 years and I know what fighting is. But what I encountered in Ukraine is a completely different war, both in terms of the scale of fighting and the reasons. In my country there was an internal conflict, here in Ukraine - a war against the Russian invasion for the very right of the Ukrainian people to have their own state.
Upon arrival in Ukraine, I had to learn a lot from scratch. But the military training was very meaningful. From the first day we were prepared for real situations. Special attention is paid to combat medicine: applying tourniquets, stabilizing the wounded - things that can save lives. The instructors gave very useful knowledge. It is very important to study well here, because soon this knowledge will have to be applied in practice.
Of course, there was adaptation, because here is a different language, a different culture. At first, it was sometimes difficult, but gestures helped a lot to better understand the words.
In Ukraine, military service is paid very decently. And this is important, because everyone has needs and certain obligations. But your motivation is also very important, your willingness to really help a country that needs it. And the most important thing is your internal readiness to be part of the Ukrainian army. Those who want to play at war should not come here. Because this is a real war, for which you need to be physically and psychologically prepared.
Yankee
I learned about serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine through social networks, in particular through TikTok. I found comrades who had already served in the Ukrainian army. They provided me with information, and based on it I made my own decision. So I got from Bogota to Madrid, from Madrid to Warsaw, and from there directly to Ukraine.
In Colombia, I served in the army for some time, then worked as a security guard, and now I am serving as a marine in Ukraine. Here my service began with military training, which is radically different from Colombian. The training is very intensive, because here we work with heavy artillery and a large number of other weapons that I did not have to deal with in my country.
I also received excellent medical training, which is given great importance here. Because our lives and those of our comrades come first. A soldier’s life depends on everyone and on himself.
I have been in Ukraine for a year now. The adaptation process was a bit difficult at first. Different customs, traditions, language, behavior, and many other things. I gradually adapted to a different diet and over time even gained a little weight.
In the Ukrainian army, they provided me with everything I needed: uniform, equipment, food, weapons. Everything is very good. Excellent attitude towards me from the commanders. I also have decent financial support. Until now, I have never had experience sailing on boats, and here, in Ukraine, I got such an opportunity, because, as I already said, I belong to the marines. I gained a lot of useful experience.
My combat experience during this year was rich. I had to operate on a difficult section of the front with unstable conditions. But when you come here to serve, you are determined to perform your combat missions well. Now I am on vacation and waiting to sign a new contract to continue serving in the marines.
As a foreigner, I feel very protected by Ukrainians. These are wonderful people, and they are very grateful to us for coming to support them.
Glory to Ukraine!
Destructor
I learned about the Russian attack on Ukraine while I was playing on the computer. My wife came in and showed me a video of what was happening. This video shocked me.
At one time, I served in the US Marine Corps, was a member of the crew of an AAV amphibious armored personnel carrier. I was always interested in heavy equipment and heavy artillery. After serving in the Marine Corps, I became a compliance officer and received enough money to be able to pay my expenses. But at some point I decided to pay my tickets to war and join the fight in Ukraine.
In the Ukrainian army, you are immediately given a lot of equipment. You can buy what you think is necessary. But I completed many combat missions with only the issued kit - and that was it. Previous knowledge from the Marine Corps helped me advance in military service in Ukraine. But I must admit that a lot has changed in military tactics. In the US we learned to fight on our terms, primarily in the air, and here it is trench warfare. Here you have to be able to dig underground to stay protected from strikes, mortars, artillery, FPV drones and Mavericks.
I was pleasantly surprised by the hospitality of Ukrainians, especially the military. There is always food, always picnics, always friendly hugs and a lot of goodwill. They want to know as much about you as you can about them. I have friends in Ukraine whom I met on the battlefield. We became friends through the brotherhood of battle.
The attitude towards soldiers here is really good. We get housing, food, medical care, discounts on travel. Locals are happy to shake our hands, hug us, want to take pictures. It is really wonderful and makes you feel like a welcome guest.
If you want a modern military experience, then Ukraine is the place to get it. When I came here, I joined the military - and I did my job well. I hope you can do the same. And people will support you and encourage you. We are looking for loyal soldiers. Loyalty will help us win the fight.
I am fighting for the people of Ukraine, for their right to live freely. And I am fighting for justice because I hate to see people oppressed. Ukraine will win because Ukrainians do not give up. They are invincible. There are many struggles in the history of the Ukrainian people. Smaller countries have defeated larger ones in many battles in history. And Ukraine will become another one of those countries.
Glory to Ukraine!
Mighty
I found out about the recruitment of volunteers for the Ukrainian Defense Forces through social networks, and then I learned the details from friends who were already here.
The military training was very thorough. We were taught various combat techniques and how to use various weapons that our unit has. We work with AK-47s, M-16s, “Pokemons” (the slang name for the modernized Kalashnikov machine gun) and other machine guns. Although the war here is mostly fought with the help of drones and long-range artillery.
We also underwent extensive training in tactical medicine. Now, in case of injury or wounding, I can provide qualified first aid to my comrades or myself.
The equipment we were given here is very good. We were provided with everything - from a helmet to boots. We were also given assault backpacks, first-aid kits, and clothing for different climatic conditions. For example, summer weather and two winter sets. And they are different. It is very good that a person can protect himself there with the help of climates. All this is camouflaged.
The adaptation process went well. The commanders treat us correctly, without rudeness. In general, relations with Ukrainians are very good. Even if we do not understand each other's language, a translator always works with us. We have never had any problems or quarrels. We help each other and cover each other in combat positions. There we became one family.
Glory to Ukraine! — Glory to the heroes!
Tigre
I am a soldier by vocation. In my homeland, I tried to join the army, passed the selection, but did not get into service. However, when I saw my friends coming to Ukraine and getting the opportunity to serve in the army, I decided that I could do it too! That is why I came to Ukraine. I saw this as a wonderful chance for myself, and also felt a desire to help Ukrainians. Russia was insidiously attacking Ukraine. As a believer, I am convinced that evil will not win. There will always be someone who will stand up for good, on the side of people fighting for freedom. As a good reader of the Bible, I believe that the wicked will never stand up at the Judgment.
I came to Ukraine in winter. After enlisting in service, I was given full equipment: winter boots, warm pants and a jacket, even special shoes for mud and snow (we jokingly call them “counter-boots”). I received a modern helmet and other very high-quality military equipment.
First, I underwent good tactical training. The training was rigorous, but necessary in order to succeed on the battlefield. We also had intensive training in tactical medicine. Because if you have the appropriate knowledge and skills, you can save a comrade on the front line.
When I arrived in Ukraine, I was received very warmly. People asked where I was from, some hugged me and even cried. This sincerely touched me. What else struck me: despite the war, the country is alive. People work, maintain order and cleanliness on the streets. There is incredible organization here! And this is a very beautiful country where free people live!
If you are also thinking of coming to Ukraine, then my advice to you is: prepare yourself physically and psychologically. And if you have some useful experience, share it, but at the same time be ready to learn a lot of new things.
Ukraine is open to new volunteers. Here you can start a military career. If you have the desire - please, the doors are open. Just serve honestly, respect people - and you will receive respect in return. Do your job conscientiously - and together we will win!
Glory to Ukraine!
Nascimento
In 2022, I learned that foreign volunteers were being accepted into the ranks of the Ukrainian army and decided to join. In Ukraine, I underwent excellent, simply excellent military training. For two months, we learned to master different types of weapons, military tactics, and important tactical medicine skills. I have very good modern weapons. We also work with drones and radars. In general, the 42nd brigade, which I joined, has excellent equipment.
The Ukrainian commanders in the 42nd brigade are very good. Our lieutenant is a great commander and a wonderful person. I have great respect for the Ukrainian military and civilians. They also treat me very well. I have good relations with civilians, they are very friendly. Ukrainian customs and cuisine are completely different from those in Colombia. But many Latin Americans enjoy Ukrainian cuisine. I really liked the porridge.
In my free time from duty, I communicate with my family via video calls, and I also read a lot.
My advice to Colombians who want to join the fight for Ukraine's freedom: seriously consider your decision. Prepare yourself psychologically and physically, because this is not an easy war. We are fighting a serious enemy. Let those who come prepare themselves psychologically and physically — because this is a very difficult test. You need to have emotional stability and good physical shape to repel a Russian attack.
Having thought everything through, set off. Take only the most necessary things with you on the road. As soon as you sign a contract and join the ranks of the Ukrainian army, you will be provided with all the necessary equipment and a full set of clothes. You will be dressed from head to toe. You will serve as part of the unit that you join.
The Ukrainian people and the Ukrainian army have shown strength and determination in this war.
Glory to Ukraine!
Coiba
I have been following the war since 2022, since the most full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine. From the very beginning, I wanted to come to defend Ukraine, but due to work circumstances I could not do it earlier. Only in September 2024 did I have the opportunity to come and join the fight for freedom.
I was an officer in the Peruvian army, retired with the rank of lieutenant. After that, I worked in several countries, doing security and intelligence for companies. For me, the most important value of a soldier is to help people. We protect freedom and those civilians who need it most. This was the main reason why I decided to come to Ukraine - because of aggression from Russia. Peru has its own military history, and my decision to support Ukraine became part of my soldier's mission.
At the beginning of the war, the Russians were unable to quickly complete their operation, because the Ukrainians showed incredible courage. The war has been going on for several years, but the Russians have still not achieved their goals.
When I arrived, I already had a drone pilot certificate from Peru. Here, in Ukraine, I underwent additional training and joined the 23rd Separate Mechanized Brigade. The training in the brigade was excellent, and the support and attitude towards us foreigners as brothers was unsurpassed. I fought with Ukrainians, and together we protected each other.
One of the lessons of war: drone operators are not the ones who are safe. The enemy is tracking us, and when we come into their field of vision, they try to destroy us. War is a constant risk.
Advice for those who want to join: you need to be morally and physically prepared. This is war, and you never know what can happen soon. This is not a fight against criminals or terrorists, but a big modern war.
The cultural difference between Latin America and Ukraine was noticeable at first. But the people here are very friendly, meetings with them are very warm and friendly. Ukrainians sincerely thank us for protecting their freedom. I really liked Ukrainian food: borscht, porridge. I liked learning Ukrainian, although it was not easy. I learned a lot of words for combat operations and I already feel like a part of this country.
Rush
russia has done a very unfair thing to Ukraine. Just watching what is happening here seemed wrong to me. I am only 21 years old, but I decided that I could come and help the Ukrainians in their fight.
At the beginning of the full-scale russian invasion, many believed that Russia would win in a few days. The Ukrainians have been protesting against it for four years now. The russian offensive in 2025 has slowed down a lot. Now they have managed to seize less territory than at any time since the start of the full-scale war.
I think that the Ukrainian people have a strong fighting spirit. Ukrainians are strong people. They are ready to continue the fight and will not give up. I know this for sure.
Ukraine is a very beautiful country. When I first came here, it snowed and everything was white. Then I was in positions for a month and when I came back, everything was already green. I have never seen such a green country.
The people here surprised me very pleasantly. Because I had heard a lot before that people in Eastern Europe were mean. But no, the people here are very kind.
I had very good military training in the International Legion. I would advise you to do it. Don't come here alone, come with a friend. I think it will be easier for you to adapt to military service if you come with people you know. Everything works better in a group.
So, if you are planning to join the Ukrainian army, just click on the link in the description. It will take you where you need to go.
Glory to Ukraine!
Playboy
In the Ukrainian army, I am a drone operator. One of my friends came here earlier and fought in the Pokrovsk area in Donbas region. Thanks to him, I independently filed documents to come as a volunteer. In Colombia, I completed my military service and became a professional soldier. But the war here is very different from the one we saw in Colombia.
The Ukrainian army is very professional in terms of military tactics. The military training here is very high-quality. I was trained in urban and trench warfare. You don't fight blindly - you are given clear instructions, and based on them you do your job perfectly. They also teach first aid here well. The first-aid kits are very well-equipped. They have everything you need to help a wounded comrade so that he doesn't die from his wounds.
All the equipment and weapons we received here are new. Everything related to supplies and food is at a very high level. Food is not delivered to the frontline like in Colombia, where you have to carry it yourself. Here, the food is delivered directly to the positions. You cook the food you want, there is no problem with that.
In this war, you can see things that you don’t see anywhere else. The training they give here perfectly complements your existing knowledge. I have experience in counter-guerrilla warfare, but here they teach you to work with technologies that you won’t see in other countries. In Colombia, drones are used only for civilian purposes — photography, topography. But here their application is completely different. I learned a lot of things that were impossible to learn in Colombia. I fly Mavic and FPV drones. I like FPV more because you control them through goggles — it’s more convenient than looking at the screen like in Mavic. FPVs are very fast: reconnaissance ones fly up to 120 km/h, and with explosives — about 60–70 km/h, which is also very fast. FPV drones provide much more effective support for infantry than Mavic, which is used more for reconnaissance. When infantry sees drones nearby, it is very encouraging. They know that they are cared for and will be supported at a critical moment. This inspires trust among soldiers, especially foreigners, because this war is very different from what we have known so far. Drones not only strike or transmit coordinates to artillery, but also deliver water or food to positions, and this is very important.
My advice to those who want to come here: this should be a personal and very considered decision. After all, war here is very difficult. I would recommend it to those who have a military vocation, but were not able to realize it before. Because if you are soldier at heart, you will always want to fight and protect others. I came voluntarily and I recommend it. You will be welcome here. There is a place for everyone.
Ukrainians are very good people and soldiers. Our commander Yura is very dedicated to the cause. He regularly visits dangerous positions, constantly checks the condition of drones. He takes care of every soldier in his company. He is a very serious, responsible commander - I am pleased to serve with him.
We will preserve the knowledge gained during military service in Ukraine and use it in the future. But for now, I want to serve here until victory.
Welcome to Ukraine!
Glory to Ukraine!
Smith