Ukraine to allow foreign volunteers to choose brigade and combat role in armed forces

"Certain formats introduced in 2022 played their role during the most critical period of the country's defense and allowed for the rapid integration of foreigners ready to join the ranks. At the same time, the situation on the front, the structure of the Defense Forces, and the needs of combat units have changed significantly," the Land Forces said.

The Defense Forces are now revising their approach to foreign volunteers. The goal is to make the most effective use of their experience, motivation, and professional skills. Volunteers will be assigned where their expertise is most needed.

Foreign volunteers will be able to expect the following when signing a contract:

• The right to independently choose a combat brigade.
• The right to independently select the service direction and specialization, based on their training, experience, and skills.

"This ensures better integration, equal opportunities with Ukrainian fighters, and a more rational use of personnel resources. The Land Forces highly value the contribution of foreign volunteers to Ukraine’s defense, their selflessness, motivation, and dedication to our shared values," the Land Forces said.

On November 3, Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal stated that, under President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's orders, the Ministry of Defense had begun preparing new types of contracts for service members and corresponding changes to legislation.

By November 7, following a meeting with the president, Shmyhal reported that the new contracts for the Armed Forces of Ukraine will provide payments ranging from 50,000 to 60,000 hryvnias, approximately $1,100 to $1,300, and allow a deferment from service after the contract ends. Current military personnel will also be eligible to sign these contracts, with priority given to them.