Ukrainian Legion Volunteers to Sign Contracts in Lublin on June 26

What Happened

A new cohort of volunteers for the Ukrainian Legion, consisting of citizens living abroad, will formalize their commitment to the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) on June 26 in Lublin, Poland. This was confirmed to Ukrinform by Petro Horkusha, a representative from the recruitment center at the Consulate General of Ukraine in Lublin.

Key Details

The upcoming signing event includes several dozen volunteers, primarily from Poland, the Netherlands, Germany, and Italy. Horkusha noted that the age range for these volunteers is between 20 and 44 years.

Currently, there are no female volunteers in this group. Many of the participants have strong ties to eastern Ukraine, including regions currently under occupation, providing them with a personal motivation to serve in the military.

Following the signing of contracts, volunteers will undergo a military medical examination before engaging in basic combined-arms training at a designated training area in Poland. This training is significant as it prepares recruits for their roles within the AFU and is conducted under NATO instructors.

The recruitment initiative for the Ukrainian Legion was officially launched in July 2024, aligned with a security agreement signed by President Volodymyr Zelensky and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. It outlines the collaboration between Ukrainian military units and Polish authorities for training activities on Polish soil.

The consulate opened its recruitment center in October 2024. Volunteers can opt for contracts that range from one year for those under 25, three years, or the length of martial law currently in effect.

The logistics of training have been structured with Ukraine supplying uniforms and medical equipment, while Poland provides essential infrastructure, equipment, and weaponry. Historically, the Ukrainian Legion has seen several groups sign contracts at intervals over the past year, with the first group formalizing their roles in November 2025.

This was followed by additional signings in subsequent months, including January and February of 2026, and most recently in June, August, and October of the last year.

Why It Matters

This ongoing enlistment reflects the continuous support for Ukraine from its diaspora. It underscores the commitment of Ukrainian citizens abroad to contribute to national defense efforts amid ongoing conflicts.

Background

The Ukrainian Legion was formed as part of a broader strategy to enhance Ukraine’s military capabilities, allowing foreign volunteers to support the country's armed forces. With a significant number of foreign volunteers in the AFU, this initiative has created an avenue for Ukrainian expatriates to serve their homeland actively.