ZAPORIZHZHIA, UKRAINE — In a profound display of international solidarity, thousands of Colombian legionnaires have joined the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) in the volatile Zaporizhzhia region. Described as a mission of "justice and humanity," these experienced soldiers are now holding the line alongside Ukrainian defenders in one of the war's toughest sectors.
A Strategic Partnership
This significant reinforcement is the result of a coordinated project between the Army command in Zaporizhzhia, brigade recruitment offices, and the Regional Combat Training Center (TCC).
The Colombian volunteers have been fully integrated into the 65th Separate Mechanized Brigade "Velykyi Luh," a unit known for its resilience on the southern front. Their arrival marks a critical boost in manpower and professional experience for the Ukrainian defense.
"We Speak the Same Language of War"
Despite the cultural and linguistic distance between South America and Eastern Europe, the integration on the battlefield has been seamless.
A company sergeant from the brigade, known by the call sign "Bublik," praised the professionalism and grit of the new recruits.
"We have found a common language with them; they understand us, and we understand them," "Bublik" stated.
He emphasized the tactical value of the Colombian troops, noting their endurance allows Ukrainian units vital opportunities to recover.
"They perform tasks at the same level as us. There are times they have to work continuously for weeks without extraction [aircraft/support], which directly helps our soldiers get the rest they need."
Sacrifice and Pride: The Volunteer’s Perspective
For the volunteers, the motivation goes beyond professional duty—it is a fight for universal liberty.
"Mukha," a 24-year-old Colombian fighter, described the atmosphere within the AFU as exceptional, citing the "best service conditions and close-knit camaraderie."
In an emotional statement, "Mukha" articulated the heavy price and the high honor of his service:
"We left behind our dreams and our families, but with a single goal — to continue protecting and fighting so that this country can be free... For me, serving in the Ukrainian army is a joy and a source of pride."
The presence of these thousands of volunteers highlights the global dimension of the conflict, where soldiers from across the ocean are willing to risk everything to defend the sovereignty of a nation under siege.