American fighters in Ukraine

Russian authorities have compiled a "blacklist" of countries whose citizens are barred from being recruited as mercenaries to fight in Ukraine, independent Russian outlet Important Stories reported on Feb. 23.

The International Legion for the Defense of Ukraine is one of the most professional and effective units within Ukraine’s armed forces—despite operating largely under the radar of international media. And that’s no accident. Home to volunteers from over 70 countries with different background, the Legion’s personnel have become a top target for Russian forces.At the outset of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, President Zelenskyy called on foreigners to join Ukraine’s defense. That call sparked the creation of a truly unique military formation—one often compared to the famed French Foreign Legion.