Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of deploying foreign mercenaries from several countries to fight against Ukrainian forces in the northeastern region of the country.
Zelensky claimed that troops from China, Pakistan, and various African countries are among those participating in Russia’s military operations. He pledged that Ukraine would respond decisively to this escalation.
“We spoke with commanders about the frontline situation, the defense of Vovchansk, and the ongoing dynamics of the battles,” Zelensky stated on social media following a visit to a frontline area in the Kharkiv region.
According to Zelensky, Ukrainian forces in this sector have reported the presence of foreign mercenaries from China, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, and African countries.
“We will respond,” he vowed.
These allegations come amid broader concerns over Russia’s reported recruitment of foreign fighters. Zelensky had previously accused Moscow of enlisting Chinese nationals to support its war efforts—an accusation Beijing has denied. North Korea is also reported to have sent thousands of troops to Russia’s Kursk region, though these claims remain unconfirmed.
So far, there has been no official response from Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, or Pakistan regarding the accusations.
