Kyiv Police Investigate Death of Brazilian Volunteer at Military Base

Foreign Volunteer Dies in Ukraine

According to Главком: Kyiv police are investigating the death of a foreign volunteer at a military base, which occurred in December 2025. The deceased is 28-year-old Brazilian national Bruno Gabriel Leal da Silva. He was undergoing military training and was set to join the 'Revenge' tactical group's Advanced Company within the GUR's International Legion. The incident happened when Leal da Silva felt unwell during a training exercise and subsequently died. Thousands of foreign nationals have volunteered to fight for Ukraine since the full-scale invasion began.

A pre-trial investigation is underway under Part 1 of Article 119 of Ukraine's Criminal Code. The body has been sent for forensic examination to determine the exact cause of death. The GUR confirmed that at the time of the tragedy, Leal da Silva was at a temporary unit location as a contract candidate. However, he had recently changed his mind and decided to leave Ukraine.

Reaction and Consequences

The Military Ombudsman has initiated an inspection of the Advanced Company. Information regarding the death of Bruno Gabriel Leal da Silva was published in an investigation by The Kyiv Independent on February 18. Ukrainian law enforcement continues to investigate the incident to clarify all circumstances surrounding his death.

This tragic event highlights the risks faced by foreign volunteers who choose to join Ukrainian military units. - The Kyiv Independent

Leal da Silva's death has caused significant concern, as it raises questions about the training conditions and safety protocols provided during instruction. The police investigation, along with the review by the Military Ombudsman, could lead to policy changes regarding the handling of foreign volunteers in Ukraine.