Ukraine's military ombudswoman: 16,000 foreign volunteers fight for Ukraine, nearly 40% from Latin America

Ukraine’s military ombudswoman Olha Reshetilova said on Thursday that approximately 16,000 foreign volunteers from at least 72 countries are currently taking part in Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression. Nearly 40% of them are citizens of Latin American countries.

Since the ombuds office began its work on January 27, 2026, it has received more than 300 submissions from foreign volunteers, their family members and authorized representatives. Reshetilova said that most of these concern financial and material support, including additional remuneration and one-time cash assistance.

A special working group has been set up at the office to address issues faced by military personnel who are foreign nationals or stateless persons. The group covers problems from the start of service through discharge, return to their home country or integration into civilian life in Ukraine.

The position of military ombudsman was created in Ukraine at the end of 2024. President Volodymyr Zelensky appointed Reshetilova, a journalist and human rights advocate, to the post. Since 2015 she has been investigating war crimes committed by the Russian army.

The ombuds office opened in January 2026. According to Reshetilova, around 5,500 complaints were received in the first three months alone. She also said that before the office was established, she had received about 12,000 complaints as the president’s designated representative. Most complaints relate to troop rotation, conflicts with commanders, violations during service, transfers, medical treatment and leave allocation.