Key facts
- French volunteers are training with Ukraine's military intelligence-led International Legion.
- The training focuses on assault tactics, weapons handling, and small-unit maneuvering.
- The International Legion is described as an 'elite combat unit' working under Ukraine's defence intelligence service.
- Volunteers are motivated by a desire to help Ukraine and a passion for soldiering.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke with Donald Trump about the war.
- NATO allies are expected to pledge substantial military aid to Ukraine at the upcoming 2026 summit.
French volunteers are undergoing training with Ukraine's military intelligence-led International Legion, practicing assault tactics, weapons handling, and small-unit maneuvering. These foreign fighters have joined the legion's Revanche Tactical Group, with some expressing a deep personal connection to the conflict and a desire to fight for the Ukrainian people.
The International Legion, described as an 'elite combat unit,' operates under the Ukrainian defence intelligence service and reportedly offers competitive salaries. Videos shared by the unit showcase its members engaged in various combat operations, including drone strikes and infantry assaults on Russian positions. While language barriers can be a challenge, instructors and interpreters are working to facilitate communication.
This development comes as Ukraine continues to receive support from international allies. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin recently spoke with US President Donald Trump about the war. Zelenskyy indicated a potential 'real prospect' of ending the conflict through continued talks. Meanwhile, NATO allies are preparing for the 2026 NATO summit in Ankara, where European members and Canada are expected to pledge significant military aid to Kyiv for 2026 and 2027.