Kraken begins recruitment of foreigners

The Kraken Special Unit is one of the most capable military units in the Ukrainian military and is part of the Active Operations Department within the Main Intelligence Directorate. The unit has been involved in combat since the full-scale invasion, helping to repel Russian Forces as they pushed towards the center of Kharkiv, liberating Vilkhivka, Ruska Lozova, Pytomnyk and many other villages. Other notable operations included the liberation of several towns, including Balakliia and Kupyansk, during the Kharkiv counter-offensive in the second half of 2022. More recently, the unit has been prominent in the defense of Chasiv Yar and has also conducted combat operations in Zaporizhia Oblast, much of which remains on a low radar.

Recruitment of Foreigners

In an Instagram post by a foreign volunteer, known by the callsign “Fenrir”, it was stated that the rumors of Kraken recruiting foreign volunteers were being confirmed. He stated that foreign teams, those existing in other structures such as the International Legion of the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine, could be accepted into the unit. It was stated that assault and reconnaissance positions were required, but they opposed taking on individuals for mortar and drone units.

As of early to mid-April 2025, the Kraken Special Unit website has officially begun accepting foreigners via an application form. It is unknown how long “Kraken” has been recruiting volunteers, or how many people will choose to join the unit.

This comes after many other units encompassing the Azov Movement, such as the 3rd Assault Brigade and the 12th Special Purpose Brigade “Azov”, have set up specific battalions to accommodate foreign fighters in their ranks. It’s more than likely that we will continue to see this trend within well-established units in the foreseeable future.