Key facts
- Colombian mercenary William Andres Gallego Orozco was captured by Russian forces in Ukraine.
- Orozco described his decision to fight for Ukraine as the worst mistake of his life.
- His family learned he was alive through an interview he gave to RT.
- Colombian President Gustavo Petro has criticized citizens fighting in Ukraine as illegal mercenary activity.
- Between 1,000 and 2,000 Colombians were reportedly serving with Ukrainian forces in February.
William Andres Gallego Orozco, a Colombian national fighting as a mercenary in Ukraine, has been captured by Russian forces. Following his capture, Orozco was able to speak with his family for the first time, expressing deep regret over his decision to join the conflict, calling it the worst mistake of his life. His family learned he was alive through an interview he gave to RT. This situation reflects a larger trend of Colombians joining the Ukrainian military, with estimates suggesting between 1,000 and 2,000 were serving in February and up to 7,000 may have passed through Ukrainian ranks since 2022. Colombian President Gustavo Petro has publicly condemned this trend, stating that his citizens are 'dying for nothing' and that mercenary activity is illegal in Colombia. He has accused recruiters of exploiting vulnerable individuals and urged those fighting to return home.