More Thai volunteers sign up to fight Russian forces in Ukraine

Thai nationals, moved by footage of the conflict in Ukraine, are signing up to defend the country following the Russian invasion. Last week, the embassy of Ukraine posted on its Facebook page, appealing to foreigners to help the country fight the Russian offensive.

According to a Bangkok Post report, a notice outside the embassy in Bangkok requests applicants to submit paperwork that includes evidence of military training via email. Volunteers must also pay for their own travel costs and related expenses.

One volunteer from the southern province of Narathiwat says he was moved to help after seeing upsetting footage on the news. 39-year-old Dej says he has weapons training, but needs to find the money to fund his travel costs. He has described Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as being like an adult bullying a small child.

“I hate to see strong people harassing weak ones. I am ready to quit as a volunteer ranger and fly to Ukraine if I am recruited to join the fight.”

Tack, also 39, from the northern province of Phetchabun, says he too is willing to sign up to fight in Ukraine, as is former army conscript, 31-year-old Golf. Around 20 Thai nationals showed up at the Ukrainian embassy yesterday, seeking information about enlisting. They have also created a Line group in which to share information about the process.

However, the Bangkok Post reports that one stumbling block is that many of them lack basic weapons training. Others are former conscripts but have never actually fought in battle. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian embassy has dismissed rumours that volunteers who go to fight in Ukraine will be given Ukrainian citizenship and other compensation once the conflict ends.

Tanee Sangrat, spokesman for Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, says that while the ministry is concerned about Thais volunteering to fight in the conflict, its priority is getting citizens out of Ukraine.

SOURCE: Bangkok Post