I have been following the war since 2022, since the most full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine. From the very beginning, I wanted to come to defend Ukraine, but due to work circumstances I could not do it earlier. Only in September 2024 did I have the opportunity to come and join the fight for freedom.

I was an officer in the Peruvian army, retired with the rank of lieutenant. After that, I worked in several countries, doing security and intelligence for companies. For me, the most important value of a soldier is to help people. We protect freedom and those civilians who need it most. This was the main reason why I decided to come to Ukraine - because of aggression from Russia. Peru has its own military history, and my decision to support Ukraine became part of my soldier's mission.

At the beginning of the war, the Russians were unable to quickly complete their operation, because the Ukrainians showed incredible courage. The war has been going on for several years, but the Russians have still not achieved their goals.

When I arrived, I already had a drone pilot certificate from Peru. Here, in Ukraine, I underwent additional training and joined the 23rd Separate Mechanized Brigade. The training in the brigade was excellent, and the support and attitude towards us foreigners as brothers was unsurpassed. I fought with Ukrainians, and together we protected each other.

One of the lessons of war: drone operators are not the ones who are safe. The enemy is tracking us, and when we come into their field of vision, they try to destroy us. War is a constant risk.

Advice for those who want to join: you need to be morally and physically prepared. This is war, and you never know what can happen soon. This is not a fight against criminals or terrorists, but a big modern war.

The cultural difference between Latin America and Ukraine was noticeable at first. But the people here are very friendly, meetings with them are very warm and friendly. Ukrainians sincerely thank us for protecting their freedom. I really liked Ukrainian food: borscht, porridge. I liked learning Ukrainian, although it was not easy. I learned a lot of words for combat operations and I already feel like a part of this country.