Islamabad 5 August: Pakistan’s Foreign Office categorically denied allegations by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who claimed that Pakistani nationals were among foreign mercenaries fighting alongside Russian forces in the Ukraine conflict.
The statement came in response to Zelensky’s remarks during a visit to the frontline in Vovchansk, Kharkiv region, on August 4, where he alleged that Ukrainian troops were encountering mercenaries from Pakistan, China, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and African countries.
In a post on X, Zelensky stated, “Our warriors in this sector are reporting the participation of mercenaries… We will respond,” following discussions with commanders of the 57th Brigade. No direct evidence was provided to substantiate the claims, which echo previous accusations by Zelensky against Russia for recruiting foreign fighters, including Chinese nationals—a charge Beijing has also denied.
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Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson, Shafqat Ali Khan, dismissed the allegations as “baseless and unfounded,” emphasizing that no credible evidence has been presented. “To date, Ukrainian authorities have not formally approached Pakistan regarding these claims,” Khan said in a statement. The Foreign Office announced plans to seek clarification from Ukrainian authorities while reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict through dialogue and diplomacy, in line with UN Charter principles.
The rebuttal aligns with Pakistan’s consistent stance of neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, as reiterated in previous denials of arms supply allegations in 2023. The Foreign Office urged restraint and de-escalation, highlighting concerns over rising civilian casualties and the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict, which began with Russia’s invasion in February 2022.
