Volunteer soldiers are becoming pivotal in Ukraine's defense strategy, with the Ministry of Defence aiming for up to 50% of assault and infantry positions to be filled by foreign nationals. This strategic move aims to bolster the Ukrainian army's capabilities and diversify its forces. President Zelenskyy has stressed the need for expanded opportunities to recruit foreign volunteers, demonstrating Ukraine's commitment to strengthening its military. In addition, the Ukrainian government is exploring options to raise military pay, ensuring that personnel are well-compensated, with a minimum salary set at 30,000 UAH for rear positions. These efforts highlight Ukraine's proactive approach to defense in 2026.
How is Ukraine planning to utilize volunteer soldiers in its army?
Ukraine is actively seeking to incorporate volunteer soldiers, particularly foreign nationals, into its military forces. The Ministry of Defence aims to have 30-50% of assault troops and infantry positions filled by these volunteers, enhancing both manpower and diversity within the ranks.
What initiatives has President Zelenskyy introduced for recruiting foreign volunteers?
President Zelenskyy has directed officials to expand recruitment opportunities for foreign volunteers, aiming to strengthen Ukraine's military by inviting and accommodating more international volunteers who wish to support the Ukrainian army.
What are the financial incentives for military personnel in Ukraine?
The Ukrainian government is poised to increase the salaries of military personnel. A minimum of 30,000 UAH is being set for those in rear positions, with the aim of providing competitive and fair compensation for soldiers serving in various capacities within the armed forces.
Why is Ukraine integrating foreign nationals into military roles?
Integrating foreign nationals into the military serves as a strategic move to augment the Ukrainian army's capabilities. It allows the addition of diverse experiences and skills, which are crucial for expanding the operational reach and preparedness of Ukraine's defense forces.
What percentage of the Ukrainian army's roles might be filled by foreign nationals?
According to the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence, the goal is for 30-50% of the assault troops and infantry positions within the Ukrainian army to be filled by foreign nationals, significantly enlarging the army's manpower and potential skill set.
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Georgian Legion Commander Mamulashvili accuses deported Nadiradze of leaking intelligence to enemy Deported volunteer soldier Vano Nadiradze was expelled from the Georgian Legion before the detachment joined the Ukrainian Armed Forces. 179 183 782
"I’ll take lead, we’ll rip out gate and move forward," – MP Semenchenko called to storm Obolonskyi district court. PHOTOS During the rally of volunteer soldiers outside the building of the Obolonskyi district court in Kyiv, where former soldiers of Tornado Company are tried, MP Semen Semenchenko called to storm the building if the court does not fulfill "legitimate demands" of volunteers. 161 918 652
Yarosh to head Ukrainian Volunteer Corps Right Sector Dmytro Yarosh agreed to head the Ukrainian Volunteer Corps Right Sector having received appeal from its commanders. 176 533 537
"Lack of Kosher Food Is Only Thing that Troubles Him at Forefront": Volunteer of Dnipro-1 Battalion Asher Is Heroically Fighting for Ukraine. PHOTOS Asher heroically protects Ukraine's independence from the pro-Russian terrorists in the Donbas as part of the Dnipro-1 volunteer battalion. 105 862 532 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine
"Two 200s, one 300": Sniper of Ukrainian Volunteer Army Bilozerska prevented terrorist provocations in ATO area. VIDEO A female sniper of the Ukrainian Volunteer Army Olena Bilozerska killed two terrorists in the Donbas as they attempted to launch provocations on Independence Day of Ukraine, Aug. 24. 319 801 488
Volunteers’ presence in line of fire was not covered by law, General Staff chief says Chief of the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Viktor Muzhenko says he is ready to accept volunteers into ranks of regular army. 34 454 487
Volunteer soldier Ulianov sets himself on fire during rally outside Defense Ministry. VIDEO The claim filed by a member of a Ukrainian Armed Forces’ SOF unit Serhii Ulianov has been heard for two years now. The soldier demands members of volunteer units to be granted the same privileges the combatants from among the professional soldiers enjoy. In an act of protest, he doused himself with a flammable liquid and set himself on fire outside the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine. 45 898 463
If Tsertsvadze extradited to Russia, Georgian Legion will leave Ukraine in protest, - Mamulashvili Mamuka Mamulashvili, the commander of the Georgian Legion that fights alongside Ukrainian soldiers in the Donbas, called on the Ukrainian authorities not to extradite their comrade, citizen of Georgia Gia Tsertsvadze to Russia. 137 330 446
Terrorists’ Missile Battalion Neutralized Near Dokuchaievsk - Azov Battalion The Azov volunteer battalion reports a large group of Russian-terrorist troops being destroyed near Dokuchaievsk in the Donetsk region. 138 610 407 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine
Turmoil outside trial of Tornado soldiers: activists attempted breakthrough into courtroom. PHOTOS+VIDEO The Obolonskyi district court of Kyiv continued hearing the case of Tornado soldiers today, Aug. 9. 56 026 383
Russian actor Pashinin joins 8th battalion of Ukrainian Volunteer Army. PHOTOS Ukrainian-born actor Anatolii Pashinin, who lived and worked in Moscow, came to his motherland to fight against separatists and Russian mercenaries. 246 705 338
Non-regulated armed formations in Ukraine should be disarmed and disbanded, - Council of Europe Any military formations in the Donbas which have not been fully integrated in the regular armed forces or the police of Ukraine should be disarmed and disbanded. 30 654 337
Putin: Zelenskyi cannot ensure disengagement of forces in Donbas Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi cannot ensure the disengagement of forces in Donbas because nationalist military units are obstructing this process, but Kyiv must demonstrate its political will in this situation, Russian President Vladimir Putin said. 19 401 336 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine
18-Year-Old Volunteer Oleksandr Raikhert from Pravyi Sector Heroically Died in Pisky. PHOTOS 18-year-old fighter of the assault company of the 5th Battalion of the Ukrainian Volunteer Corps of Pravyi Sector (The Right Sector) from Kherson was killed in Pisky. 112 375 254
First brigade of light infantry of National Guard, created under NATO standards, continues recruiting. VIDEO The first light infantry brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine continues recruiting volunteers. 94 932 233
Cabinet Approves Procedure For Use Of Hunting Weapons And Cartridges For Them When Performing Tasks Of Territorial Defense The Cabinet of Ministers approved the procedure for the use by members of volunteer units of territorial communities of personal hunting weapons and cartridges for them when performing territorial defense tasks. 37 717 225
Fire-fighting service fundamental reform kicks off in Ukraine, Interior Minister Avakov says Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine Arsen Avakov announced the launch of Ukraine’s fire-fighting service reform. 16 325 208
Shootout between Tornado fighters and law enforcers occurred in Boiarka, - 112 Ukraine A shootout took place in Boiarka (the Kyiv region) between fighters of the disbanded Interior Ministry company "Tornado" and representatives of the military prosecutor's office. 105 056 207
"Servant of the People" Kryvosheev: Increasing payments to stimulate entry into AFU are not our methods, wrong motivation MP from the Servant of the People party, Ihor Kryvosheiev, believes that it is wrong to lure volunteers to the Ukrainian army with big money. He says that such methods are inherent in the aggressor state and are not suitable for Ukraine. 26 392 193
Pravy Sector volunteer corps left the front line to prepare for inclusion into Ukrainian Army Pravy Sector volunteer corps has left the contact line in the ATO area. The soldiers are preparing for inclusion into the Ukrainian Army. 45 807 184
Russian national Tolopa fighting in ranks of Ukraine’s Army still unable to obtain Ukrainian citizenship Yulia Tolopa, call sign Valkiria, who came to Ukraine from the Russian Federation to fight against separatists and Russian troops in the Donbas, has been unable to obtain Ukrainian citizenship for the third year. 37 230 183
Interior Ministry spokesperson shows Ukrainian UAV bombing Russian mercenaries in Donbas. VIDEO Ukrainian soldiers employ strike drones against Russian invaders in the Donbas. 45 058 182 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine
"Cyborg" Hatylo Speaks About Ceasefire, Criminal Orders, and Mutual Help of Volunteers and Regulars. PHOTOS "A shovel, preferably a sharp one, is the most important thing in the war," Hatylo jokes. He is one of those soldiers whom the terrorists called the Donetsk airport cyborgs. He is a volunteer of the 5th battalion of the Ukrainian Volunteer Corps of terrible "Pravoseks" – members of Pravyi Sector. 151 175 174 Previously in trend: Volunteers for the Army Battle for Donetsk
Activists, relatives of Ilovaisk victims rallied outside PGO, demanded to end persecution of volunteers. PHOTOS+VIDEO Volunteers, activists and relatives of those killed in the Ilovaisk tragedy gathered near the building of the Prosecutor General's Office to protest against the attempts by Ukraine's authorities to put an end to the volunteer movement and discredit patriots. 13 604 169
Crimean Tatars to create volunteer battalion of National Guard, – Isliamov Crimean Tatars are to create a volunteer battalion named after Noman Çelebicihan (Crimean Tatar politician, lawyer, Mufti of Crimean Muslims, and writer of the early twentieth century) as part of the National Guard. 39 200 164 Previously in trend: Occupied territories - Crimea and Donbas
Three missing Kyiv-1 battalion soldiers found alive - Interior Ministry People's Front MP and Kyiv-1 battalion coordinator Yevhen Deidei and two Kyiv-1 battalion soldiers, who all had gone missing in the Donbas on Tuesday, were found alive. 197 671 159
Russian volunteer formations that entered Belgorod region reported on implementation of special operation. VIDEO The Russian anti-Putin volunteer formation RVC, which entered the Belgorod region of the Russian Federation, had no casualties. There are only wounded. In turn, the "Legion of Freedom" also reported that 2 soldiers were killed and 10 soldiers were wounded. 39 352 156 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine War
250 soldiers recruited to Crimea battalion, – coordinator of Crimea blockade Isliamov The Crimea battalion, which will patrol checkpoints at the entrance to the occupied Crimea, has recruited about 250 people. 15 723 148 Previously in trend: Blockade of Crimea
"Russian Fascists Decided to Destroy Our Motherland. That’s Why We Are Here" - One Day on Up-Front with Dnipro-1 Battalion. VIDEO Volunteers from the Dnipro-1 battalion are repelling the Russian militants’ attacks at a checkpoint near Donetsk. 72 232 141 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine
PGO set to refuse extradition of Georgian Legion's soldier Tsertsvadze to Russia, - Lutsenko The Prosecutor General's Office of Ukraine is likely to refuse to extradite soldier of the Georgian Legion Gia Tsertsvadze to the Russian Federation. 35 118 137
Osmaev attacker survived and will testify, - interior minister adviser Herashchenko Killer who attacked Donbas war participant Adam Osmaev in Kyiv on June 1 was wounded by Osmaev's wife Amina Okueva. He survived, is guarded and will testify. 79 894 136 Previously in trend: Attempt on Osmaev
Volunteer detachment commander wants it to become part of National Guard, says yesterday's incident was provocation by SBU SBU's statement about apprehension in Mariupol of an illegal armed group is a provocation against Odin - a detachment led by Ruslan "Rem" Kachmala, previously part of Right Sector - which announced in summer it sought transition to the National Guard of Ukraine. 88 140 136
"Defendants try to disrupt almost every hearing," - prosecutor in trial of Tornado Company soldiers. VIDEO Ex-servicemen of Tornado Company, who are tried by the Obolonskyi district court of Kyiv, are threatening judges and prosecutors during almost every hearing, pouring green-colored disinfectant, sour milk, and sewage disposals over them. 22 871 128
Ze-propagandist Zolkin was outraged by question of why he was not going to war as volunteer: "Are you #ucking crazy or something?". VIDEO Popular blogger and interviewer Volodymyr Zolkin, known for his conversations with Russian prisoners of war, reacted sharply to viewers' accusations about his personal involvement in combat operations. According to Censor.NET, during one of his broadcasts, Zolkin was outraged by the question of... 27 852 127 Previously in trend: Mobilisation in Ukraine
Dnipro Battalion Has Left All Positions in Donetsk Region Except Pisky Village - Battalion Commander Bereza Dnipro Battalion was withdrawn from all positions in the Donetsk region except for the village of Pisky by the order of Kyiv commandment. 61 352 126 Previously in trend: Snap Parliamentary Elections
"When asked who would be responsible for weapon given to volunteers, I said I would," - Turchynov On the first stage of Russian aggression against Ukraine, no volunteers who applied to participate in the fighting were checked for criminal records. 25 728 119 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine
Viktor Hurniak, "Aidar" Soldier, Buried in Lviv. VIDEO Viktor Hurniak, news photographer, journalist, and a volunteer soldier was buried Wednesday in Lviv's Lychakiv cemetery. Viktor died in the Donbass. Thousands of leopolitans accompanied the body to his final destination. 27-year-old Viktor Hurniak saw the war for the first time as a photographer, and later exchanged the lens for the rifle. He died as a hero on Oct. 19 in the Luhansk region at his first fighting. Viktor is survived by wife and two-year-ol daughter. 29 933 117 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine
Right Sector denies Zakhid battalions being within its structure Newly created Zakhid, Zakhid-2, Zahid-3, and Zahid-4 battalions are not included in the structure of the Right Sector and have been created exclusively on the initiative of individual fighters and commanders, having their own leadership and subordination. 33 282 112
"We’ve lost more people to poor leadership and Soviet thinking than to direct Russian actions" – U.S. volunteer fighter O’Leary American volunteer fighter Ryan O’Leary, commander of the Chosen Company, announced he is disbanding the unit due to poor leadership. The serviceman also expressed his opinion regarding the quality of the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ officer corps. 24 646 111
18-year-old British volunteer soldier James Wilton was killed during his first combat mission in Donetsk region. PHOTO James Wilton, an 18-year-old volunteer soldier from the United Kingdom who joined the Armed Forces a few months after graduating from college, was killed in the fighting for Ukraine. It was his first combat mission. 25 262 110
Volunteer battalions participating in the ATO will do military service under contracts with National Guard and Armed Forces of Ukraine Volunteer battalions participating in the anti-terrorist operation in the Donbas have fulfilled their mission and are currently turned into regimental troops of the National Guard and the Armed Forces of Ukraine. 38 871 104
"I'm here because I want to stop the aggressor furthest from my Europe," - Italian volunteer in Donbas. VIDEO Italian volunteers Giuseppe Donini and Walter Nebbiolo are fighting Russian-backed separatists in the Donbas alongside Ukrainian soldiers. 38 439 104 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine War
JFO commander Naiev unexpectedly checks on advanced position of Georgian volunteer soldiers. VIDEO&PHOTOS. VIDEO&PHOTOS Joint Forces Operation (JFO) Commander Serhii Naiev paid a visit to the unit of volunteer soldiers from Georgia fighting against Russian-backed militants in Ukraine’s Donbas region. 41 214 103
March of Unbowed took place in Ukraine's capital on Independence Day. VIDEO+PHOTOS Оn Aug. 24, after the solemn military parade on Khreshchatyk ended, the March of the Unbowed took place in downtown Kyiv, as the families of the Heavenly Hundred Heroes, relatives of the dead and missing Ukrainian soldiers marched along the capital's main street. 42 003 102
"Without waiting for call-up papers, they took up arms to repel aggressor," - Ukraine marks volunteer battalions anniversary. VIDEO Today, Ukraine marks the 2nd anniversary of volunteer battalions whose soldiers and officers faced the first hellish days of war with Russia and the most difficult battles. 18 294 100 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine War
Turkish volunteers delivered 120 pieces of uniforms for Krym Battalion, - Isliamov. PHOTOS The Crimean Tatar Krym (Crimea) Battalion has received 120 pieces of military uniforms as assistance of volunteers from Turkey. 38 695 99 Previously in trend: Blockade of Crimea
Prosecutor-"cyborg" claims position at anti-corruption prosecutor's office Tomorrow, Nov. 26, the second round of interviews with candidates for positions at the specialized anti-corruption prosecutor's office will continue. One of the contenders is Lviv prosecutor Maksym Hryshchiuk who defended the Donetsk airport as part of the 81st Separate Airmobile Brigade. 51 736 96 Previously in trend: Fighting corruption in Ukraine
Occupier, fleeing from shelling, jumps into trench to soldiers of Armed Forces of Ukraine, who have entered rear of enemy position. VIDEO Ukrainian soldiers captured a Russian occupier who had jumped into a trench, believing that Russian soldiers were there. 41 016 95 Previously in trend: War
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