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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that foreign fighters from several countries, including Pakistan, are reportedly participating as mercenaries in the ongoing war against Russia a charge swiftly denied by Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO).
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) following his visit to Vovchansk, a frontline town in Kharkiv, Zelensky stated:
“Our warriors are reporting the participation of mercenaries from China, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and African countries. We will respond.”
The Ukrainian president made the statement while awarding soldiers from the 57th Brigade and discussing operational challenges, including drone supply and funding.
He previously accused Russia of recruiting foreign fighters, including those from North Korea and China allegations both countries denied.
Responding to the latest remarks, Pakistan’s Foreign Office on Tuesday strongly rejected the claim as “baseless and unfounded”, asserting that no formal communication or evidence had been received from Ukraine to support the accusation.
“The Government of Pakistan will take up the matter with Ukrainian authorities and seek clarification,” the FO said, reaffirming Pakistan’s strict neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
In 2023, Islamabad had also denied claims by U.S.-based publication The Intercept, which alleged Pakistan supplied arms to Ukraine in exchange for an IMF bailout. Pakistan maintained its stance of non-alignment and stressed the need for diplomatic efforts and ceasefire.
The Pakistani government has consistently called for a peaceful resolution to the war, emphasizing the importance of neutrality and humanitarian aid over military involvement.
