I come from the hinterland of Minas Gerais state in Brazil, but I lived in Europe for over ten years. Today I have been in Ukraine for almost two years, a country that has become my home.

I believe in the strength of the Ukrainian people. I believe that these people will not give up. Despite what you may hear in some media outlets as if “russia will win,” the truth is different: a full-scale war has been going on for four years, and Ukraine is standing firm. The Ukrainian people are resisting. And I see it every day.

When Russia’s full-scale invasion began in 2022, I was living in Europe. I have a son who also lives there. I thought that this war could go further. Even then, we felt the consequences — rising prices, instability. But it wasn’t just about the economy. I felt that I had to do something.

I contacted the military who were already here, got information, and went to Ukraine. Here I showed up at the recruitment point for foreign volunteers — and that’s where my journey in Ukraine began. My first unit was the Fourth International Legion. We underwent intensive military training for about two months. It was a solid foundation that opened up opportunities for me to serve further.

Initially, I was driven by the desire to help stop a war that could have spread. But once I was here, my vision changed. I saw how hospitable, strong, and united Ukrainians are. Today I have a Ukrainian family — and that motivates me even more.

I know that people are dying. It hurts. But I also see that Ukrainians don’t want to give up. They want to fight to the end. There is strength in this culture. Perseverance is what unites Ukrainians and Brazilians. We Brazilians have drive. And Ukrainians have it too.

I used to serve with Americans, Brazilians, Colombians, Canadians, and now mostly with Ukrainians. And I never had any problems because of nationality. The important thing here is that you came to protect people.

There is a salary, everything is paid clearly, twice a month. But if someone thinks only about money, this is the wrong motivation. I want to say honestly: do not come here with the idea that war is like a computer game. War is blood, pain, and a real risk of losing your life. No amount of money can compensate for this.

If you come, come with an idea, with understanding, with a willingness to listen and learn. Here you will serve with Ukrainians, receive orders from Ukrainians. You have to adapt to their culture and military system, not the other way around.

Now I am serving in the 31st Separate Mechanized Brigade. It is a strong brigade with good support. We have a unit that is mostly Brazilian. I started as a drone explosives installer, and later I got the opportunity to become a drone pilot. There is real professional growth here, if you are willing to learn and work. Everything that was promised to us has been fulfilled.

When you see the news about the shelling of civilians, about injured and dead children, it is impossible to describe in words. That is why I am here. I came to protect children, the elderly, the innocent.

My definition of Ukraine is love. Ukraine accepted me. It became my home. I admire the Ukrainian people and their culture and am ready to stand with them until the end.