04/08/2025
Got my formal letter of offer today to join the Ukraine Armed Forces, after a successful interview and background check.
No problem dying for Ukraine, but it has to be on my own terms; if that makes sense.
Not with a rifle in hand, but rather a camera.
The most important question I had during my recruitment interview was:
"Is it possible after choosing my role and unit, that I could be sent somewhere else instead?"
My recruiter: "You would know from your own service experience that this is possible."
Me:
At least they're being honest about it; unlike the stories coming out about foreign factory workers tricked into the Russian army.
Also appreciated feedback I could die or be seriously injured, during the interview.
They're predominantly trying to fill infantry roles.
The good news: you can have a criminal conviction as a foreigner, and still serve. I was transparent with them on my assault conviction.
You just can't be under current legal proceedings or investigation.
I'm now in Warsaw, Poland.
The formal letter will get me back into the country without the requirement of a visa, as I've used up my 90 days.
I sat next to this poor Chinese national on my 18-hour bus out of Ukraine to Warsaw, who seemed to be having night-terrors.
It was uncomfortable to listen to, but best not to wake him up and embarrass the guy, was my approach. Almost the whole bus was turning around.
He was saying something along the lines of "no, no, no, no". It sounded so sad for him.
No idea if he was a recent service man, but he was in his late 40s so a lifetime of experiences to draw that pain from anyway.
He got out of the coach at the international airport in Warsaw.
I do want to see the frontlines. All of them. But for short durations, and only to share stories.
That's the only "risk versus pay-off" I can see that's worth it.
It really isn't looking great for Ukraine; this David and Goliath battle.
But if heart and soul are anything to go by: this country will never be truly, fully occupied.
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