A Story of Courage and Advice for Future Volunteers – Foreign Volunteer Thomas ("Krakov") Speaks

"If someone wants to join the Ukrainian forces – know that you will be trained from scratch to full combat readiness," says Polish volunteer Thomas (callsign "Krakov"). We present to you an exclusive interview with a volunteer defending Ukraine.

He left a comfortable life in the United Kingdom to become part of Ukraine’s defense. In this video, Thomas shares how, just days after the war began, he decided to leave his career as a manager at one of London’s most expensive restaurants to become a volunteer fighting for Ukraine’s freedom.

His strongest impression after crossing the border was the warm welcome and kindness of the local people who helped him in the beginning. Thomas describes his training at the military range and how he soon found himself defending Kyiv—first as part of the Georgian Legion, then in the "Carpathian Sich" battalion.

Unexpectedly, Thomas became a combat medic and a trainer for new recruits. He gives a detailed account of the challenges of warfare: living in basements, intense training, and the importance of teamwork, discipline, and communication.

Thomas addresses those who wish to join the Ukrainian forces: "Remember—discipline, teamwork, and communication are everything. You will be provided with everything necessary for battle."

He urges volunteers not to stay silent when something is lacking but to openly ask commanders for help and always tell the truth—because lives depend on it, both their own and their comrades'.

Watch the video to hear Thomas’s inspiring story and learn why the Ukrainian army is one of the strongest in Europe today. If you feel the call to fight for freedom, join the ranks of Ukraine’s defenders and become part of this shared cause!