Azov Brigade Starts Recruiting Foreigners

The 12th Special Operations Brigade "Azov" has started recruiting foreigners. This was reported on the brigade's official Telegram page. "Service in "Azov" means modern military standards, professionalism, as well as brotherhood and mutual respect.

Soldiers from all over the world have already joined our ranks and are standing shoulder to shoulder with Ukrainians against the aggressor," brigade representatives stated. The brigade offers its recruits modern weapons, quality training and motivated comrades.

Foreigners in the Ukrainian Defense Forces

Since the beginning of the large-scale invasion, Ukraine has been actively recruiting foreigners to serve in the Armed Forces. In the Armed Forces, foreigners serve in the International Legion of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, the International Legion of Territorial Defense Forces, and in some units staffed by foreign volunteers.

Brazilian volunteer in the Ukrainian Defense Forces

In February 2024, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyi signed a decree allowing foreigners to serve in the National Guard of Ukraine. This means that they can also serve in the 12th Azov Brigade.

Since then, foreigners who legally reside in Ukraine, have no criminal record and meet the requirements set out in the Law of Ukraine "On Military Duty and Military Service" can voluntarily (under contract) serve in the National Guard. To do so, they must apply to the Territorial Center for Recruitment and Social Support at their place of residence or directly to the military unit of the National Guard where they plan to serve under the contract. Female foreign nationals can also be enlisted for military service under a contract if there are vacant military positions available for servicewomen.

Soldiers of the Georgian National Legion.

Photo from open sources

Since October 2024, foreigners and stateless persons have been allowed to hold officer positions in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the National Guard, and the State Special Transport Service. In order to do so, they must pass a special vetting process conducted by the Foreigner Recruitment Center, an institution of which is currently in the process of establishment. The special process will include establishing the legality of their stay in Ukraine.

It will also check for any administrative or criminal liability under Ukrainian law.