Kenyans are among the foreign volunteers signing up to fight side by side with Ukrainians against Russian forces in the ranks of the International Legion. But what do they earn?
From the moment a contract is signed, volunteers receive a basic salary. Once deployed to the frontlines, their pay increases significantly through combat allowances and performance-based bonuses.
The International Legion for the Defense of Ukraine operates as a series of separate battalions under the command of the Ukrainian Land Forces.
Recruitment is governed by Ukrainian law and is open to men and women aged between 18 and 60 years. Candidates must have no criminal record or history of prosecution and must be free from chronic illnesses. All applicants are required to undergo a medical assessment and demonstrate physical fitness capable of handling basic infantry duties.
Additionally, volunteers must be able to legally enter Ukraine at their own expense, as the Armed Forces do not provide support for visa processing or travel arrangements.
How Kenyans Can Join Ukraine Foreign Legion
The application process begins with an online submission where applicants are asked to provide personal details, military or related experience, and skills. This initial step helps the Ukrainian authorities determine a candidate’s suitability for military service.
Once submitted, the application undergoes an eligibility screening to confirm age, physical health, and legal standing.
Shortlisted candidates are then invited for an interview—either virtual or in person—to assess their motivation, readiness, and overall suitability. Additional assessments may include physical fitness tests and psychological evaluations.
Once you are recruited, a contract is signed. From that moment on, the serviceman is provided with the norms of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (salary, food, uniform, equipment, social guarantees, etc.).
Also Read: How to Join KDF Military Police: Requirements, Process, and Salary
Salary Scale
From the date of signing the contract, including during the training period, the serviceman receives the salary of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (UAH 20,200 or more — approx. Ksh 65,868) but does not receive payments for performing combat missions.
The volunteer undergoes basic general military training (up to a month and a half, depending on his or her experience).
After that, with the participation of instructors and commanders, the future place of service and specific duties of the volunteer are determined, taking into account the wishes of the legionnaire.
In the combat zone, pre-training and combat coordination with the team take place. From the day of arrival in the combat zone, the legionnaire receives an additional remuneration of UAH 30,000 (approx. Ksh 97,800), in addition to the salary, based on the number of days spent in the area.
When performing combat missions, a serviceman receives an additional remuneration of UAH 100,000 per month (approx. Ksh 326,000), based on the number of days of combat missions.
Also, for every 30 days spent on the front line of combat operations, a serviceman receives an additional bonus of UAH 70,000 (approx. Ksh 228,200).
Ukraine Foreign Legion Military Units
1st International Legion
This unit is composed of foreign military volunteers—citizens from various countries—who serve in the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
It was established on February 27, 2022, following a directive by President Volodymyr Zelensky to provide an opportunity for international volunteers to join the fight against Russian aggression.
2nd International Legion
This unit primarily brings together Ukrainians, Belarusians, Georgians, and others from nations for whom this war represents a battle for survival.
It welcomes all who are ready to defend democracy, liberty, and national independence, and who are determined to bring an end to Russian imperialism.
Their message is clear: “We are fighting, and we will prevail.”
Also Read: How Kenyans Can Join British Military with Salary of Ksh 363K
3rd International Legion – Separate Special Forces Battalion
Formed on March 11, 2022, the 3rd International Defense Legion of Ukraine is a special forces unit within the Armed Forces of Ukraine, comprising military volunteers from foreign nations.
The battalion plays a vital role in countering Russian advances during the ongoing invasion.
4th International Legion
The 4th International Legion of Defense of Ukraine is a specialized unit composed of foreigners with combat experience acquired on Ukrainian soil.
Its key role includes training foreign volunteers who wish to join the Ukrainian military but lack prior service experience.
Volunteers sign military contracts, receive uniforms and gear, complete a basic training course, and pass final assessments within the unit. Upon completion, they are assigned to combat units based on their contracts.
The Legion uses three main languages—English, Ukrainian, and Spanish. All instructors are seasoned soldiers with direct combat experience in Ukraine. They train both new recruits and former military personnel from abroad, helping them adapt to modern warfare and expand their tactical knowledge.
47th Separate Mechanized Brigade “Magura”
Founded in spring 2022, the 47th Brigade began as an assault battalion, then expanded into a regiment, and by November 2022, became a full brigade.
It includes both veteran soldiers and passionate volunteers, united by the goal of reclaiming Ukrainian territory and defeating enemy forces.
The brigade is built on strong values: mutual respect, discipline, continuous training, and deep patriotism. Equipped with modern weapons, Western gear, and excellent organization, the 47th is a highly capable and respected front-line force.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
