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Colombian Fighters Join Ukraine’s 47th Brigade in New Elite Strike Unit
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![Photo of Vlad Litnarovych]( "Photo of Vlad Litnarovych")
A new assault unit composed primarily of Colombian fighters has been formally established within Ukraine’s 47th Separate Mechanized Brigade, the unit announced on July 10.
Known as the R.U.G.—short for Reconnaissance-Strike Group—the assault company includes not only Colombian nationals but also foreign volunteers from Peru, Brazil, Zimbabwe, Italy, and Mexico.
🇨🇴 Colombian soldiers have formed an assault unit in Ukraine’s 47th Brigade, joined by volunteers from Brazil, Peru, Zimbabwe, Italy, and Mexico.
— Ivan Khomenko (@KhomenkoIv60065) July 10, 2025
They operate on the front lines, including against Russian and North Korean forces. pic.twitter.com/N2RknwxojG
Most of the unit’s members are Colombian, and many joined Ukraine’s armed forces with the support of official government programs that fast-track enlistment.
The unit has its roots in the early days of the brigade’s formation. The 47th, also known by its combat nickname “Magura,” quickly earned a reputation for its professionalism and access to advanced Western weapons, making it a natural destination for foreign volunteers.
Over time, the Colombian presence within the brigade grew into a full-fledged assault company, coordinated by a commander known by the call sign “Hamlet,” who also organizes the travel of new Colombian volunteers to Ukraine.
The Colombians are trained from scratch within the brigade and are deployed in both assault and defensive roles. Some members transferred in from other units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU), drawn by the combat readiness and tactical culture of the 47th Brigade.
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“The work of the Colombian assault troops shows great results and has significantly helped on the battlefield,” said leadership from the R.U.G. unit.
“They’ve already fought against elite Russian brigades and North Korean special forces in the Kursk region. They’re brave, compassionate—they evacuate not only their own wounded, but injured Ukrainians as well. These are courageous warriors who are ready to take on the toughest missions. It’s a meaningful contribution to our brigade.”
Earlier, Iranian opposition journalist Kourosh Sehati officially joined the International Legion of Ukraine’s Armed Forces, becoming the first known Iranian national to do so.
