Zelenskyy allows foreigners to serve in Ukraine’s National Guards

President Zelenskyy’s decree allows foreign residents in Ukraine to join the National Guard, as the country continues its fight against Russian aggression

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a decree late Wednesday allowing foreign citizens legally residing in Ukraine to join the National Guard.

The National Guard of Ukraine, a branch of the interior ministry actively engaged in the conflict against Russia, would accept foreigners as service members only voluntarily. On the other hand, Ukrainian citizens can either volunteer or be mobilized to join the National Guard.

In February 2022, Zelenskyy called upon foreign fighters to join Ukraine’s resistance against Russian President Vladimir Putin’s full-scale invasion.

Currently, approximately 20,000 foreigners are serving in Ukraine’s foreign legion.

Citizens from 55 countries have joined Ukraine’s efforts in the conflict.

Ukrainian citizenship for those who serve in the army

However, there have been challenges regarding the legal status of foreign fighters, particularly those from Russia and Belarus who have faced persecution in their home countries.

The Ukrainian government has reported efforts to remove barriers for foreigners willing to fight.

In January, Ukraine’s parliament simplified the process for granting Ukrainian citizenship to foreigners who have served in different units of the Ukrainian armed forces.

On the other hand, Russia has actively recruited individuals from abroad for its campaign against Ukraine.

The Kremlin reportedly enlisted up to 15,000 Nepalese to participate in the conflict.

Additionally, citizens from Sierra Leone, Cuba, and Syria have also been reported to have joined Russia’s military actions against Ukraine.

Italy to sign an agreement to support Ukraine

On Thursday, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced Italy is preparing to finalize a security agreement with Ukraine.

The agreement aims to bolster Kyiv’s defense industry capabilities and enhance its ability to combat hybrid threats, including cyber warfare.

Italy, currently holding the rotating presidency of the Group of Seven (G-7) significant democracies, will join other countries such as Germany, France, and Britain in signing bilateral agreements to support Ukraine against Russia’s ongoing invasion.

Source: Newsroom

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