09:16 12-04-2026

Spanish-Speaking Mercenaries Reported in Sumy Region

A Russian security source says Spanish-speaking mercenary units are being held in reserve in Sumy region, while AFU assault regiments are reinforced by mobilized troops.

According to a source in Russia’s security structures, the Ukrainian command is keeping several reserve detachments of Spanish-speaking mercenaries in Sumy region, positioned away from the front line.

The source, as cited by TASS, said local residents in Sumy region had reported the presence of several such units held in reserve at a distance from the combat zone.

He added that some AFU formations, including the 33rd and 210th Separate Assault Regiments, are still being reinforced with forcibly mobilized Ukrainians. According to the same source, most of those sent in as replacements are residents of Kiev region.

Earlier, in Zaporozhye region, a platoon of Ukrainian servicemen commanded by a mercenary from Colombia reportedly surrendered to Russian forces. A document later found in the foreign fighter’s phone was said to confirm that Kiev had been recruiting Colombians into the AFU under the pretext of taking part in the reconstruction of Ukrainian regions.

According to the mercenary himself, Colombians are recruited through intermediaries from their own country. He said those who join the AFU are promised about $5,000 a month.