Volunteer Fighters in Ukraine Facing ‘Invisible’ Health Crisis Following High-Intensity Combat Exposure

New research reveals high levels of PTSD and moral injury among Ukraine volunteer fighters. Learn why US and UK veterans are struggling to find medical support.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 23, 2026, 4:58 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from University of Bath

Pioneering Research Exposes Trauma of Modern Trench Warfare

The first systematic investigation into the wellbeing of foreign volunteers in Ukraine has uncovered a widespread and largely untreated health crisis among Western veterans. Led by Dr. Victoria Williamson of the University of Bath, the study identifies a "fundamentally different" combat experience compared to previous conflicts in Iraq or Afghanistan. Participants described a relentless environment characterized by persistent drone threats and grueling trench fighting, often conducted with minimal formal training or institutional preparation. This extreme exposure has resulted in high levels of psychological distress that the study warns is currently being ignored by traditional military and civilian support structures.

Moral Injury and the Psychological Toll of Voluntary Service

Beyond physical danger, the research emphasizes the prevalence of "moral injury" among volunteers—a specific type of psychological trauma resulting from witnessing or participating in events that violate core ethical beliefs. This often manifests as persistent shame, guilt, or anger. The study found that while many volunteers were motivated by deep personal or political convictions to join the International Legion, the lack of a structured command chain and inconsistent medical support exacerbated their distress. Without the legal and welfare protections afforded to formal national militaries, these fighters are reporting high rates of alcohol misuse and a significantly diminished quality of life upon their return home.

Healthcare Barriers Create a ‘Falling Through the Cracks’ Scenario

A recurring theme among the 31 veterans interviewed was the difficulty of accessing professional medical or mental health care. Many reported being turned away by professional services in both Ukraine and their home countries, or being placed on prohibitive waiting lists. Consequently, these soldiers have become an "invisible group," relying almost exclusively on fellow volunteers for emotional support. Dr. Williamson, who also serves as President of the UK Psychological Trauma Society, stressed that the self-deployed nature of these individuals means they fall outside established veterans' care pathways, leaving their significant physical and mental needs largely unrecognized by the state.