International legions integrated into Ukrainian assault units
The international legions within the Armed Forces of Ukraine have not been disbanded. Instead, they have been integrated into the assault units of the Ground Forces to enhance combat effectiveness and provide access to new weapons and equipment.
According to the Ground Forces, foreign volunteer units remain active — rather than forming separate “light” battalions, they have become part of experienced assault formations.
This integration improves combat readiness, ensures better protection for personnel, and provides access to logistics, artillery, and aerial reconnaissance resources.
The combat missions of legionnaires remain unchanged, and they continue to serve in the same operational directions. Additionally, personnel have opportunities for retraining as UAV operators, artillery specialists, intelligence officers, or support staff. Some legionnaires also participate in recruiting new volunteers.
The Ukrainian Armed Forces command emphasized that the integration is sometimes misrepresented in the media as a “disbandment” of the legions. In reality, it is a measure aimed at increasing transparency, accountability, and unit combat effectiveness, not ending their activity.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that citizens of Bangladesh are being lured to Russia under the guise of civilian work and then forced to fight in Ukraine. In December, Russia recruited over 150 foreigners from 25 countries, with approximately 200 more preparing to join, according to Oleg Ivashchenko, head of Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service.
In Kenya, authorities uncovered a network recruiting individuals for service in the Russian occupiers’ army.
