Thousands of Colombians Advocate for Ukraine's Cause
In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, a significant number of Colombian soldiers have been serving alongside Ukrainian forces. As of July 2025, up to 2,000 Colombians have signed up to serve, according to a Ukrainian officer from the 47th separate mechanized brigade.
The motivations behind these Colombian soldiers' decisions to join the fight are varied and not fully detailed by Ukrainian sources. While the exact reasons may differ, it is clear that these soldiers are drawn by a combination of personal belief in Ukraine's cause and financial interests.
Financial incentives for Colombian volunteers or mercenaries in Ukraine are not extensively documented. However, many are presumed to receive compensation, though the exact figures and terms are not publicly disclosed. Ukraine provides foreign volunteers with combatant status and veteran benefits, such as transportation perks and potential certificates for combat participation, but these relate more to recognition and support after service rather than direct financial incentives during service.
Colombia, a country that has been embroiled in conflict for over half a century, offers these soldiers a pay significantly higher than what they would earn in their own military. The longest civil war in the world, with over 200,000 deaths, has left many former Colombian soldiers unemployed and struggling financially.
The Ukrainian Foreign Legion, established shortly after Russia's invasion in February 2022, began accepting legionnaires who only speak Spanish at the end of 2023. Applications for frontline service from foreign fighters can be made via the official website of the Ukrainian Foreign Legion. Colombian soldiers are recruited by Ukraine due to their military know-how and familiarity with modern war technology and tactics.
Notably, Colombian soldier José Medina was arrested in Venezuela upon his return from Ukraine. Venezuela has a close partnership with Russia, and its military and intelligence services work together. The exact number of Colombian soldiers serving in the Ukrainian army is not known, but estimates range from at least 1,000 to 2,000.
In conclusion, while the specific motivations and financial arrangements of Colombian fighters in Ukraine are not fully understood, it is clear that these soldiers are making a significant contribution to the ongoing conflict. The Ukrainian Foreign Legion continues to accept applications from Spanish-speaking soldiers, offering a unique opportunity for those with military experience to join the fight against Russia.
- Despite the lack of transparency surrounding the financial incentives provided to Colombian soldiers serving in the Ukrainian army, it is evident that these soldiers are attracted by the promise of higher pay compared to their military earnings in Colombia, given the country's long history of conflicts and subsequent employment difficulties for former soldiers.
- In light of the increased recruitment of Spanish-speaking soldiers by the Ukrainian Foreign Legion, Politics, general news, war-and-conflicts, and employment policies of both Colombia and Ukraine become intertwined, especially as these soldiers contribute to the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, with some facing legal consequences in countries allied with Russia, such as Venezuela.
