U.S. volunteers join Ukraine’s army after Trump’s policy shift

Kyiv Independent reported the information.

William, a 25-year-old U.S. Army veteran, arrived in Ukraine to join its military just days after completing his contract in March. He had planned to come later but felt compelled to act after President Trump halted military aid and intelligence sharing, a decision he called "frustrating" and "dangerous."

His interest in Ukraine dates back to the 2013–2014 EuroMaidan Revolution, which he followed as a high schooler in Tennessee. He is among many Americans enlisting in Ukraine’s forces, with recruitment surging after Trump's February 28 Oval Office meeting with Zelenskyy.

A Ukrainian military recruiter reported a flood of applications from Americans angered by U.S. policy. One, Ron, a 35-year-old Army veteran from Colorado, enlisted after Trump suspended aid. "I love my country, but its leaders are destroying it," he said.

Another recruit, "Juggernaut," a former Cavalry Scout, arrived in February, disillusioned after voting for Trump in 2024. "Seeing Ukrainians endure so much erased my fear of dying," he said.

Esquire, a 40-year-old Texas lawyer with no military experience, felt compelled to act despite his family's pleas. "I mourn my country like a dead friend," he said in Kyiv.

Trump’s policies, including possible NATO withdrawal, have fueled fears of a broader war in Europe. "A general war with Russia is becoming more likely," Ron warned. "I need to do my part to prevent that."