The Kastus Kalinowski Regiment has a new leader: Pavlo Shurmei, nicknamed “Uncle,” has been appointed acting commander.

He has been fighting for free Ukraine and Belarus since the beginning of russia's full-scale invasion.

“Everything depends on us. If we want to be free, no one will do it for us. Yes, Ukraine and the West can help us [Belarusians], but they will not do it for us. We have to stand up, take up arms and win this fight, win our freedom, our right to choose our own path, our life and future,” said Pavel Shurmei.

In the interview, he described his life and combat path from a machine gunner to a commander, including his participation in battles in Kyiv, southern and eastern Ukraine, and his injury near Bakhmut.

In the interview, Pavel also spoke about the reforms taking place in the belarusian military unit and called on volunteers to join its ranks.