Before coming to Ukraine, I served in the Colombian army. After demobilization, I worked on a farm and lived an ordinary life. I learned about the war in Ukraine from social networks. For several months, I followed the news every day - watched videos and read stories of people who were experiencing the russian invasion. I was especially struck by the footage of destroyed houses, the stories of families who had lost everything, and children forced to live to the sounds of sirens and explosions. Gradually, I realized that I could not remain indifferent.

In July 2025, I arrived in Ukraine. What I saw was significantly different from what I had imagined before. Watching videos on the Internet, I thought that the entire country lay in ruins. In fact, most cities continued to live their lives. People worked, raised children, and made plans for the future. The war was nearby, but its true face was revealed only closer to the front.

One of the main reasons I decided to come was my attitude towards what was happening. I saw how russia was striking at civilian infrastructure, at cities and villages where peaceful people live. It was especially painful for me to see the suffering of children. I felt that I wanted to help those who were defending their land. It was also important to me that Ukrainians were fighting for the right to remain themselves — to speak their own language, preserve their own culture, and independently determine the future of their state.

The war in Ukraine turned out to be not what I had imagined it to be. It is an extremely technological war. Drones have become an integral part of the battlefield. At first, they cause fear. You understand that you can be watched at any moment. But over time, you adapt to the new reality, learn to move more carefully and make the right decisions in difficult circumstances.

Here I gained many new skills. I learned to provide assistance to wounded comrades, mastered new types of weapons and techniques of modern combat. I remember my first shot from an anti-tank grenade launcher. I was nervous, because I had never even held such a weapon in my hands before. However, experience comes through practice, and nervousness is replaced by confidence.

During the war, I met volunteers from different countries of the world - Brazilians, Peruvians, British and many others. But most of all here, of course, Colombians. We are united by a willingness to support each other and move forward even when it is extremely difficult.
I would like to say a special word about the Ukrainians. I was most impressed by their gratitude. People treated us with respect and sincerity. In frontline settlements, local residents often brought us homemade products and everything they could share. Children gave us small souvenirs, asked to be photographed and simply thanked for the help. Such moments remain in my memory forever.

When I am asked whether it is worth going to Ukraine as a volunteer, I always answer the same way: first you need to study everything well and understand where exactly you are going. This is not a place for those looking for easy money or adventure. Modern war is extremely dangerous. Everyone should be aware of all the risks before making such a decision.

Despite all the difficulties, I do not regret my choice. Here I met incredible people, saw the courage of Ukrainian soldiers and understood the true price of freedom. Ukraine accepted me as a friend. That is why I will always remember this country and the people I met here.

Glory to Ukraine!