"I Want to Build My Life in Ukraine" –  Costa, Colombian Volunteer

A former professional soldier in the Colombian armed forces, Costa followed Russia's invasion closely before volunteering to join Ukraine's fight. After studying the battlefield and speaking with veterans, he traveled to Ukraine to serve. 

Now, after more than five months of intensive tactical and combat medical training, he is ready for his first deployment in the ranks of the 253rd Assault Regiment “Arey”. His goal extends beyond a single mission — he hopes to make Ukraine his home and continue wearing its uniform for years to come.

Why I Chose this Unit

While preparing for his journey, Costa spent nearly a year and a half researching the war. His decision to choose his current unit was also influenced by a friend who had served in the Ukrainian army for nearly three years — from the very beginning of the full-scale invasion in 2022:

“He told me it was an excellent battalion with strong commanders who are constantly aware of the situation. Thanks to the effective work of the drone operators, everything runs very smoothly.”

Preparing for Combat

Although he has not yet participated in his first combat mission, the delay has been due to the battalion's relocation and movement to a new operational area rather than a lack of readiness:

“I've been training here in Ukraine for more than five months now — I feel ready. I feel confident before my first mission.”

Training in Ukraine

The Colombian volunteer considers the training in Ukraine to be exceptional, particularly in tactical skills and combat medicine:

“I've devoted a lot of attention to combat medicine. Thanks to the instructors, I've already gained a solid foundation, and I want to keep learning.

We also spend a great deal of time practicing tactical movement, offensive operations, and defense.

I've learned so much here because warfare in my country is completely different, and it's almost impossible to gain this kind of experience there.

I believe this is outstanding preparation for combat operations.”

Looking to the Future

Costa hopes to remain in Ukraine after completing all the necessary legal procedures:

“If I could build my life in Ukraine, it would be wonderful. I would very much like to stay here for the long term and continue wearing Ukraine's green military uniform.”

Text: Dmytro Tolkachov

Video, Photos: Dmytro Tolkachov, Oleksandr Bekker

Editing: Oleksandr Bekker