Colombian mercenaries ‘dying for nothing’ in Ukraine, President Gustavo Petro says

May 6, 2026

TL;DR

President Gustavo Petro stated that Colombian mercenaries fighting in Ukraine are 'dying for nothing.'
He emphasized that Colombia does not 'export death' and that mercenary activity is illegal under Colombian law.
Petro accused Ukraine of treating Colombian fighters as 'second-class' individuals.
Ukraine has been seeking foreign recruits since February 2022 due to the conflict with Russia.
Recent estimates suggest 1,000 to 2,000 Colombians are currently fighting in Ukraine, though figures vary.
Ukraine is reportedly facing troop shortages, leading to more stringent mobilization practices.

Continue reading the original article