Russian warmongering and the conflict in Ukraine has unsettled most of us, but it seems there’s a group of veterans that want to do more than just watch the turmoil. Retired members of the UK special forces are currently lending a hand against Russia’s attacks.

According to The Times, more than 150 former special forces members are headed to the frontlines.

While the mission is not funded or supported by the UK government, the former paratroopers are expected to work with Ukraine’s own special forces, which are reportedly coordinating with specialists from the UK military.

A Mirror report shed more light on the group, noting that the members range between 40–60 years of age, and include anti-aircraft and anti-tank missile specialists, alongside extremely fine-tuned snipergs.

Meanwhile, officials have repeatedly stated that veterans should be discouraged from going to Ukraine, and current servicemembers are being warned of the consequences if they leave their posts to fight in Ukraine.

The current team of SAS experts has tackled tough enemies in harrowing places such as Iraq and Afghanistan.

One ex-SAS man told the Daily Mirror: “This has had to happen very quickly as the situation in Ukraine is now desperate and they need urgent help. A lot of ex-parachute regiment colleagues are also very keen to go. Many people are very keen to go, and it has had to be organised very quickly.

“It is legal as none of the men going out are still serving and Ukraine has invited people to go in and help the fight militarily. It means some of the most experienced veterans in the world will assist Ukraine and link up with the Ukrainian force headquarters. And we do know that Putin has a great deal of respect of the SAS,” they said.

Officially, it’s a tricky position for the UK to be in. A direct skirmish with Russia means involving a NATO member state in the conflict, which is what everyone wants to avoid. However, former soldiers are as “unofficial” as unofficial can get.

The only thing we know for sure is that these former soldiers will be raining hell down on Russian advances. We will continue to support our soldiers any and all endeavours that go in favour of Ukraine.