Pakistan rejects claims by Volodymyr Zelenskyy on mercenaries aiding Russia; calls it baseless

Pakistan's Foreign Office rejected claims made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who said that his troops were fighting foreign mercenaries from Pakistan, China and parts of Africa.

On Monday, Zelenskyy claimed that his northern Ukraine troops were fighting foreign mercenaries.

The statement by the foreign office said that Pakistan categorically rejected the baseless and unfounded allegations of the involvement of Pakistani nationals in the conflict in Ukraine.

“To date, Pakistan has not been formally approached by the Ukrainian authorities, nor has any verifiable evidence been presented to substantiate such claims.”

The statement also said the Pakistani government would take the matter up with the Ukrainian authorities and seek an explanation.

“Pakistan reaffirms its commitment to the peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict through dialogue and diplomacy, in accordance with the principles of the UN Charter,” the statement read.

Zelenskyy had made the post on Monday, saying, “We spoke with commanders about the frontline situation, the defence of Vovchansk, and the dynamics of the battles.

“Our warriors in this sector are reporting the participation of mercenaries from China, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, and African countries in the war. We will respond.”

Zelenskyy has accused Moscow of recruiting Chinese fighters for its war in Ukraine before, allegations which were denied by Beijing. North Korea, however, has provided thousands of its troops to Moscow.

The Ukrainian president had also added that lots of foreign fighters have also volunteered to fight for Ukraine and were on the front lines.

Pakistan has been strengthening its ties with Russia in recent years. However, Ukraine has sold weapons to Pakistan before which it stopped later, to strengthen ties with India.