Redney Miranda, a Brazilian originally from Bahia, pursued his childhood dream of becoming a soldier by traveling to Ukraine to participate in the ongoing war after becoming frustrated with his inability to join the Brazilian Army. Motivated by a thirst for adrenaline, he initially planned to stay for only 30 days, but ended up remaining for 172 days, approximately six months, during which he endured relentless bombings and a harsh reality of war. He lost a staggering 28 kilograms during his time in Ukraine, partially due to the inadequate food supply which consisted mostly of military rations.

Miranda's experience in Ukraine was fraught with danger and despair. He recounted the severe conditions faced by combatants, including a period where he survived for days on minimal sustenance, such as only the seasoning from instant noodles. In addition to physical hardships, he bore witness to the tragic loss of comrades, which profoundly impacted him. These experiences culminated in a state of disillusionment, leading him to flee the army—highlighting the stark contrast between his expectations of glory and the grim realities of war.

Upon his return to Brazil, Miranda's physical transformation illustrated the toll the war took on him; he returned weighing only a little over sixty kilograms, compared to his starting weight of ninety. His journey raises critical questions about the motivations of foreign fighters in Ukraine, the realities of war, and the personal costs that accompany such choices. Redney's story is a poignant reminder of the complex human stories behind headlines, illustrating both the allure and the horrors of warfare.