When the Russian special military operation invasion of Ukraine started in February, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy asked for “citizens of the world” to join Ukrainian forces to help defend their homes. For many, uprooting their lives and moving to a foreign land to fight in a war is unheard of. Even as sympathies pour out for those affected, many in the United States and abroad have families, jobs, and lives that they need to attend to. For many U.S. Veterans, however, this is a call to action for what they know best. But there are some things you’ll need to know even if you are experienced before making the journey. If you’re looking to join the cause as one of the American Veterans fighting in Ukraine, be sure you do your research beforehand.
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How American Veterans Fighting in Ukraine Should Prepare
The International Legion of Ukraine can be legally joined by American citizens, but you’ll need to know a few things before you apply. It should also be noted that Russia has claimed that they will treat Americans and other foreign fighters as mercenaries. Be that as it may, this invasion has gone on far longer than anyone expected, and no one knows how long it’ll take to end. If you’re looking to join, here’s how you can prepare:
- U.S. Veterans in Ukraine need to be in fighting shape and have equipment such as military clothing and body armor. Is it required? No, but don’t expect there to be an abundance of supplies.
- Apply through a Ukrainian embassy. This is the legal route afforded to Veterans fighting in Ukraine. Other routes may be illegal and cost you your freedom. You’ll also need to write an application that shows you are choosing to join of your own volition.
- Make sure you get your affairs in order before deployment, just in case the worst does happen. You’ll also need official documents, such as a passport.
- Go to the Ukrainian embassy and conduct an interview with your documentation ready.
- If accepted, confirm what you’ll need to bring with you and travel to Europe according to the methods provided.
- You’ll want to follow the instructions of Ukrainian officials and enter in an organized fashion. It is also important to respect the Ukrainian chain of command.
Many people looking to join the fight in Ukraine are getting in way over their heads. This isn’t just because of the realities of war but also the qualifications and the necessary equipment needed to even be a part of the Ukrainian military. The Ukrainian forces are lacking in supplies and equipment and already have enough inexperienced people as a part of their forces.
As a Veteran, some of this won’t apply. You know how to conduct yourself on the battlefield. You’re battle-tested. You also have the qualifications needed and possibly the right equipment to get the job done. Still, you’ll want to be sure you do things the legal way and remember the risks that come with such service, as noble as it might be.
How Many American Veterans Are Fighting in Ukraine?
It’s hard to know exactly how many American Veterans fighting in Ukraine there are; however, despite risks and official warnings, around 4,000 Americans have expressed interest in joining the cause. Many of these are U.S. Veterans. It’s yet another example of how, no matter where our Veterans have to answer the call, they are ready to defend freedom throughout the world.
Veterans Should Prepare Before Joining Ukraine
Going into a mission without the right preparation is a recipe for disaster. You are not only putting your life at risk but also those you are planning on protecting and the people who are fighting alongside you.
You also don’t want to end up in some of the precarious legal situations that many may find themselves in by not taking the proper steps through official channels. Some countries are banning travel to Ukraine to fight altogether, and while the U.S. is not, there are still laws and regulations on how to proceed. Failure to abide could leave you with both international and domestic legal issues.
To the American Veterans fighting in Ukraine, your work is noble and again represents the best of what America stands for. The entire world is hoping that this conflict comes to an end sooner rather than later, but we are proud to see the brave troops fighting against tyranny and unethical invasions.
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