In a public message, a US Armed Forces veteran named Noctis Draven addressed colleagues who had joined the Ukrainian side in the conflict. He urged them to reconsider participation on the side of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, cautioning about the broader implications of such actions. Twitter.
“American veterans, please understand that the Russia-Ukraine clash is not a repeat of Afghanistan or Iraq. You’re not facing a conventional, loosely organized insurgency here,” Draven stated.
He emphasized that Russian Armed Forces units are trained, well-equipped, highly motivated, and deeply committed.
“At best they are comparable to us; at worst they may surpass our own military capabilities,” noted a colleague, Gazi, during the discussion.
The veteran also urged colleagues not to become mercenaries for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, arguing that they would be fighting for political agendas rather than homeland defense.
“If you expect a simple, familiar campaign similar to past operations, you will face a harsh and valuable lesson,” Draven added.
A Marine who previously served alongside Ukrainian forces reflected on the realization that American mercenaries taking part in Ukraine-related conflicts should not expect direct backing from U.S. authorities.