Ukraine's hidden strength - How foreign volunteers shape war course
Photo: Ukrainian Armed Forces (Getty Images)
Foreign volunteers continue to make a significant contribution to strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities, fighting alongside Ukrainian troops in some of the most intense sectors of the front, according to the Ukrainian Ground Forces.
Contribution and significance of foreign volunteers
The Ground Forces highly value the professionalism, motivation, and commitment to Ukraine demonstrated by foreign servicemembers who sign contracts with the Armed Forces. Their participation strengthens the resilience of Ukraine’s defences and helps accomplish complex combat tasks.
Development and adaptation of Defence Forces
Ukraine continues to refine approaches to forming combat units, taking into account operational experience gained in recent years. This includes reviewing service formats, adapting structures, and introducing new solutions aimed at improving the effective use of personnel.
Integration of experience and specialization
Foreign servicemembers can serve in roles aligned with their professional training and experience. Their combat expertise is integrated into units where it is most valuable for fulfilling defence missions, ensuring maximum impact in the joint fight against Russian forces.
Decision-making and dialogue
All decisions regarding the deployment of foreign servicemembers are made within the broader transformation of the Defence Forces and in accordance with frontline needs. The Ground Forces emphasize openness to dialogue with servicemembers and partners, acknowledging their contribution to strengthening the country’s security.
For reference, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi stated that Russia loses around one thousand soldiers every day, while its advance on the front line amounts to only 1.5 to 4.5 kilometres per month.
Syrskyi also noted that the defence of Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad remains solid, with fortified positions held by Ukrainian forces for more than a year despite repeated attempts by Russian forces to seize these areas and their previously declared deadlines for taking full control of Donbas, which were not achieved.
