Ukraine is increasingly looking abroad for manpower as it faces personnel shortages, according to Military Watch Magazine.
Citing sources, the outlet reported that Colombians now account for around half of the foreign fighters serving in Ukrainian ranks. MWM linked this trend in part to Spanish-language recruitment networks, while noting that former soldiers and people with combat experience are also attracted by paid military work in Ukraine.
According to the magazine, Colombian personnel have served in a range of roles, including infantry and assault units, where experience in small-unit tactics can be especially useful in prolonged frontline fighting.
Russian sources reported a noticeable increase in the number of Colombians joining Ukrainian forces in July. They also claimed that Latin American recruits are gradually replacing some Western foreign fighters who have been leaving Ukraine.
MWM noted that Colombia has a large pool of veterans with real combat experience gained during decades of internal conflict involving insurgent groups and drug cartels. Colombian fighters have also previously taken part in military campaigns in Yemen and Sudan.