KEY POINTS

  • The elite sniper said missing his son’s birthday was the “hardest part” of the decision
  • He added that his wife was opposed to the idea
  • Wali said when he arrived in Ukraine he was greeted by the citizens with open arms

One of the world’s deadliest snipers, nicknamed Wali, has arrived in Ukraine, vowing to help the country fight Russia.

The sniper, whose real name is unknown, had previously traveled to Iraq on his own to fight against ISIS in 2015, the Canadian Broadcasting Corp reported.

“I want to help them. It’s as simple as that,” said the soldier, who only gave his nickname Wali, in a recent interview with the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. “I have to help because there are people here being bombarded just because they want to be European and not Russian.”

The former member of the elite Royal 22e Regiment of Canada said it was a surreal experience.

“A week ago, I was still programming stuff,” he said. “Now I’m grabbing anti-tank missiles in a warehouse to kill real people ... that’s my reality right now.”

Wali has left behind his wife and baby boy, who will be celebrating his first birthday without him next week. The elite sniper said missing his son’s birthday was the “hardest part” of the decision to join the fight. He also said his wife was opposed to the idea.

“You can imagine what she said and how she thinks,” Wali said.

When Ukrainian President Volodymir Zelensky called on foreign soldiers to join the fight against Russia, Wali didn't hesitate and arrived Wednesday in the country as part of the Canadian contingent, according to Marca.

“All foreigners wishing to join the resistance against the Russian occupiers and protect international security are invited by the Ukrainian government to come to our territory to join the ranks of our territorial forces," Zelensky announced as Russian forces stormed into the country, carrying out several attacks.

Wali said when he arrived in Ukraine he was greeted by the citizens with open arms.

“They were so happy to have us,” Wali said. “It’s like we were friends right away."

According to 7News, Wali and other veterans have sheltered in an abandoned home, before they meet with Ukrainian authorities.

Thousands of people have died, and more than 2 million people have already fled Ukraine since the Russian invasion began. Zelensky said 35,000 civilians have been evacuated from Ukrainian cities Wednesday. The Russia-Ukraine war crisis continues as it enters its 15th day.

Two men carry a woman as people flee from advancing Russian troops whose attack on Ukraine continues in the town of Irpin outside Kyiv, Ukraine, March 8, 2022.
Two men carry a woman as people flee from advancing Russian troops whose attack on Ukraine continues in the town of Irpin outside Kyiv, Ukraine, March 8, 2022. Reuters / THOMAS PETER
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