mercenary

A mercenary is a professional soldier hired to fight for a foreign country or organization, typically in exchange for money rather than loyalty to a nation or cause. Unlike regular military personnel who serve their country's armed forces, mercenaries operate independently or with private military companies, often taking on conflicts where official armies are absent. Their involvement usually focuses on personal profit, and they may work for governments, corporations, or groups seeking military expertise. While they can provide specialized skills, their role raises ethical and legal questions, especially regarding accountability and adherence to international laws.