A MAN from Workington has flown to Ukraine to help the country’s armed forces in the defence of the nation.

Kai Wier, 20, landed in Poland last Friday before moving into Ukraine to serve in the country's foreign legion.

The former British soldier spoke to the Times & Star shortly before travelling to Ukraine, saying he felt compelled to go after watching reports from the country and the human casualties that were occurring.

He said: “I was watching all of the videos on the news of the innocent people who are being injured and killed every day and seeing everyone (Ukrainian men) with next to no experience signing up to fight made me feel as if I should do the same.”

Kai has some military training having served in the British Army for over four years (he left the forces recently).

The Workington man’s family are said to have been extremely supportive of his decision, but were incredibly shocked when he first announced it.

Kai said: “I think everyone was shocked with it being such short notice, but everyone is being supportive towards me.”

The 20-year-old flew to Poland last Friday and met up with other people from around the world who have also gone to help in the country.

They included a Ukrainian, a former US Marine and a former member of the Estonian military.

Kai has since moved into Ukraine to help the country's troops fight against the Russian invasion; however is unable to disclose his location or whether he has begun fighting within the country due to security risks that may be posed.

Speaking to the Times & Star from Ukraine on Monday, Kai advised people who may not have previous military experience to find other ways to help in the country.

He said: “All I would say to anyone willing to come is if you don’t have military experience look for other ways to help rather than the foreign legion.”

The Russian invasion of Ukraine began on February 24, since when the country has faced many casualties, both civilian and military.

Millions of refugees have also had to flee the country to countries nearby and the wider continent of Europe.