Ukraine issues mercenary plea to stem manpower crisis

March 4, 2026

TL;DR

Ukraine intends to increase its recruitment of foreign fighters to combat army manpower shortages.
The strategy aims to address issues of draft evasion and desertion within the armed forces.
Ukraine has incorporated foreign nationals into its military since 2014, formalizing the International Legion after the 2022 escalation with Russia.
Criticism from Ukrainian activists suggests recent foreign recruits are motivated by money and less reliable in combat than initial waves of foreign fighters.
The International Legion was reportedly disbanded in December, with foreign fighters ordered to join regular Ukrainian assault units.
President Zelensky has previously urged foreign sponsors to fund higher wages for Ukrainian soldiers to transition to an all-volunteer system.

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