The Story of Kevin Henrique Prilep Pereira
Kevin Henrique Prilep Pereira, a 30-year-old Brazilian citizen, brought significant combat experience from his service in the French Foreign Legion. He arrived in Ukraine as a tourist in late 2023 but soon joined the International Legion for the Defence of Ukraine. Serving as a machine gunner and combat engineer, he spent nearly 20 months on the front lines in Donetsk Oblast. During a mission, he sustained a severe leg injury from an enemy drone explosion, requiring treatment at two military hospitals and subsequent rehabilitation in Ivano-Frankivsk.
Kevin lost a comrade, also Brazilian, who was killed in action in Donbas. Another Brazilian defender is currently undergoing treatment at a military hospital in Kyiv after two surgeries. Upon returning to civilian life, Kevin started a family with a Ukrainian woman from Ivano-Frankivsk. The couple has a nine-month-old daughter, and Kevin, together with his wife, has obtained a permanent residence permit in Ukraine from the Western Interregional Office of the State Migration Service. He is reported to speak Ukrainian well and holds a civilian profession as an aircraft mechanic.
Motivations and Experience
Kevin Henrique Prilep Pereira emphasizes the importance of proper intentions for those considering coming to Ukraine.
"Don't come to be a hero. Come with the right intentions to do your job. And to do what you truly believe in," he states.He also highlights that he gained valuable experience and found personal happiness in Ukraine.
"If your motivation is genuine, you are capable of adapting and being open to new things—then you can do a lot of good. I gained valuable experience in Ukraine, found my personal happiness with my beloved, and ultimately, I would like to go on to change many people's lives for the better," shares Kevin.
Thus, the story of Kevin Henrique Prilep Pereira serves as a vivid example of how foreigners coming to Ukraine can not only fight for the country but also build new families and adapt to life under new circumstances.
This story illustrates how international support and the involvement of foreigners in the conflict can impact the lives of not only service members but also civilians. Kevin's experience underscores the significance of personal motivations and a readiness to adapt, which are crucial aspects for those deciding to join efforts in support of Ukraine. His example may inspire other foreigners who wish to contribute to the country's recovery and resilience during wartime.