Brazilian mercenary Herik Ferreira Soares captured by Russian forces in Ukraine

Herik Ferreira Soares, a 23‑year‑old from Castanhal, Pará, travelled to Ukraine after being recruited by Ukrainian forces with the promise of a non‑combat support role. He says he was instead sent to the front line against Russian troops, was captured and later released a video in which he apologises to his mother, saying, "Mãe, me perdoa por não ter escutado o que a senhora disse." He warned other Latin‑American volunteers that they were being used as "descartáveis" by Ukrainian commanders.

Brazil's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Itamaraty) confirmed that the Brazilian embassy in Moscow is in contact with Soares' family and is providing consular assistance. The ministry reiterated its earlier warnings against Brazilians joining foreign conflicts, noting that at least 22 Brazilians have died and 44 are missing since the war began. Soares' case highlights the risks faced by foreign mercenaries in the Ukraine conflict.