52nd International Assault Regiment “Forge”

International Legion

After the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the International Legion Ukraine had long been the only option for foreign volunteers willing to fight Russian imperial ambitions side by side with Ukrainians. However, this changed in December 2024, when the Azov International Battalion was established.

A vibrant alternative to the Ukraine International Legion, the unit has brought together fighters from around the world to form one of the most combat-effective international units in Ukraine. Experience, motivation, and professionalism are the foundational values of the Azov International Legion.

Part of the legendary Azov Brigade with an 11-year combat record, the 52nd International Assault Regiment “Forge” is chosen by many foreign volunteers — including veterans of the International Legion Ukraine — who value strong leadership, continuous self-improvement through training, and the spirit of true combat brotherhood.

The future of the free democratic world is being written on Ukraine's frontlines. Whether a battle-hardened warrior with years of experience or a courageous heart willing to join the Ukraine International Legion and learn from the best, the 52nd International Assault Regiment “Forge” is the right place for you.

FAQ

Recruitment

How can I sign up to serve in "Forge"?

To submit your application, please follow these steps:

1. Complete the application form, providing detailed information, including your military experience and specialization.
2. Wait for a call from the recruitment centre to clarify additional details.
3. Attend an in-person interview in Kyiv. Option for an online interview is also available.
4. Submit the required paperwork.
5. Your documents will be submitted for verification and background check.
6. After the verification is completed, you will be required to come to Kyiv for a medical exam.
7. You sign a contract with "Forge".

How long does it take to sign the contract to serve in "Forge"?

If we don’t have any issues with your documents or your medical examination, it will likely take 2 to 6 weeks to sign the military contract.

What are the terms of service for foreign citizens in "Forge"?

The terms of service are exactly the same as those applicable to Ukrainian service members at "Forge".

Can I transfer from a brigade in the Armed Forces of Ukraine to "Forge"?

Yes, it is possible. However, it may take an extensive period of time. Please contact one of our Recruitment Centers (see the Contacts section in the Main Menu) to discuss your options.

Is there a probation period for a new recruit?

Yes, the contract states that the first 2 months of service are the probation period.This way, both parties (the recruit and the military unit) will be able to figure out if the recruit is a good fit for our military unit.

What do I need to prepare in my home country before traveling?

To begin with, you must have a valid international passport for traveling abroad. If your country requires a visa to enter Ukraine, you must obtain this visa before departure.You can find a list of countries whose citizens are required to obtain a visa if you are going through Poland here (https://www.gov.pl/web/uae/list-of-countries-whose-citizens-are-required-to-have-visas-when-entering-poland). Please make sure to check your country's status and prepare accordingly.

What are the basic requirements I need to know before applying?

The main requirements are: English proficiency at a level sufficient to perform military duties in an English-speaking environment. No serious health issues that would interfere with fulfilling military responsibilities. No criminal record. Make sure you meet these criteria before submitting your application.

Where will I stay during the document preparation process? How much money do I need?

Unfortunately, the regiment does not provide housing for candidates due to security reasons.You should plan to cover your own accommodation and living expenses in Ukraine for approximately 2–3 weeks. The document processing usually takes around 2 weeks from the moment you arrive and submit your paperwork to the recruiters. However, you should be prepared for unforeseen delays, so having a financial buffer is strongly recommended.

I am already under contract with another unit. How can I transfer to your unit?

We do not process transfers for foreigners due to the lengthy and bureaucratic nature of the procedure. If you wish to join us, you must first terminate your current contract and then submit a new application. We may consider applications from individuals who have already initiated the contract termination process and can provide a clear timeline for their availability.

I am a specialist in a critical field. Can I join directly into the unit I want?

Your preferences regarding the area of service are definitely taken into account before the start of basic combat training. However, approval for a specific position can only be granted by the commander of that unit — either during the interview or after you are already in the regiment. We cannot guarantee placement in a specific role prior to arrival.

Donations

How will my donation be used?

We will use the donated funds to purchase protective equipment and vehicles for servicemen of 52nd International Assault Regiment “Forge”. High-quality military equipment is expensive and takes time to procure. This essential equipment will keep our defenders safe on the battlefield.

Why is 52nd International Assault Regiment “Forge” raising money?

Setting up a new combat regiment from scratch requires a great deal of resources. As a newly-established unit, the International Assault Regiment needs to buy high-quality gear for its servicemen so they can carry out their combat missions. Donations are the fastest way to convert the support of our friends abroad into direct, tangible impact on the battlefield.

What donation options do I have to support the 52nd International Assault Regiment “Forge”?

You can donate in the way that suits you best:
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● For an international bank transfer in US dollars, use a respective IBAN account number of our Ukrainian bank. You can copy all the details of the recipient account and paste them directly into your banking application.
● When making a card payment, you can choose between Stripe, Monobank (a Ukrainian payment service provider) or LiqPay (another Ukrainian payment system). Important: with Stripe, you can donate in several currencies: US dollar, Euro, British po und, Japanese yen or Polish złoty.
● For crypto-transfers, you can use the WhitePay option. Please note that some banking fees or card charges may apply to your donation, depending on your bank or payment service provider.

How can I be certain that my donation is secure?

We offer only the safest donation channels that preserve your confidentiality. Your donation will go to the accounts of AZOV.ONE, which is an officially registered legal entity in Ukraine that is authorized to raise funds on behalf of “Forge”. AZOV.ONE will register all donations, use these funds to procure supplies and then report on these supplies.

What should I do if I have a problem when donating?

You may experience a technical issue when making your donation. Please take a screenshot of the error that you receive from your bank application or from the payment processing platform, and then send it to us at info@azov.one, along with a brief description of the error. We will do our best to help you solve the problem as soon as possible.

Forge

Commander

Pavlo “Keel” Kurchenko