Colombians Form the Largest Group of Foreign Volunteers Fighting for Ukraine

Colombian citizens currently make up the largest contingent of foreign volunteers fighting for Ukraine, with approximately 7,000 personnel deployed across various units, according to figures cited by the BBC.

The presence of Colombian fighters reflects the international nature of Ukraine’s defense since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Foreign volunteers have integrated into various military structures, including the International Legion and other formations of Ukraine’s Defense Forces.

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War in Ukraine

Colombian Volunteers Fight Alongside Ukraine, Bringing South American Valor to Eastern European Resolve

Jan 17, 2025 17:38

Many Colombian volunteers have prior military experience gained during years ofinternal  conflict in Colombia . This background has made them particularly valuable combatants in frontline roles, including infantry operations, reconnaissance, and drone warfare.

Foreign fighters serve under Ukrainian command and are integrated into mechanized brigades, assault units, and specialized formations.

The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has emphasized that these volunteers play an important role in reinforcing defensive operations, particularly in critical sectors of the front.

Earlier, UNITED24 Media joined Colombian soldiers serving in the Khartiia Brigade of Ukraine’s National Guard, documenting their experience on the front line. The report shows how these foreign volunteers participate in active operations, adapt to combat conditions in Ukraine, and explain the personal reasons that led them to join the country’s defense against the Russian invasion.

The participation of Colombian citizens also highlights the global dimension in the defense of Ukraine, which has drawn fighters from Latin America, Europe, North America, and other regions.

The significant presence of Colombian fighters also comes amid a broader reorganization of foreign units within Ukraine’s Defense Forces. As previously reported, the Ministry of Defense is integrating international battalions into larger combat brigades to improve coordination, access to heavy weapons, and battlefield protection — a move intended to strengthen the operational effectiveness of foreign volunteers on the front line.

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