'War is not an easy way to make money,' Bolivian fighting in Ukraine warns after recruitment allegations

A Bolivian national fighting in Ukraine has issued a stark warning to his compatriots, urging them to thoroughly investigate any offers related to the ongoing conflict and not to be deceived by promises of easy money or employment.

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War is not an adventure. It is not a video game. And it is not an easy way to make money.

Luis Herbas, who claims to have been serving in the Ukrainian Armed Forces since March 1, 2025, as a junior sergeant on the front lines, published a detailed message on social media. He emphasized that his decision to join the Ukrainian military was entirely his own, stating, "No one recruited me. No one deceived me. No one promised me a different job. I came on my own, organized my trip, and bore all the expenses to get here."

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No one recruited me. No one deceived me. No one promised me a different job. I came on my own, organized my trip, and bore all the expenses to get here.

Herbas's statement follows investigations by Bolivian authorities into alleged human trafficking and the recruitment of at least 16 Bolivians who were reportedly sent to Russia with false job promises. He acknowledged that he is not personally familiar with these specific cases but stressed the inherent dangers of war. "War is fear. It is bombings. It is wounded and dead comrades. It is constant physical and mental wear. It is the real possibility of not returning home," he stated.

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War is fear. It is bombings. It is wounded and dead comrades. It is constant physical and mental wear. It is the real possibility of not returning home.

He also mentioned witnessing disorganization and corruption during his time in the conflict zone, clarifying that his remarks are based on personal experience rather than political motives. Herbas urged anyone receiving offers related to the war to conduct extensive research before accepting. "War is not an adventure. It is not a video game. And it is not an easy way to make money," he concluded.

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If you receive an offer related to this war, investigate absolutely everything before accepting. Do not be swayed.