Pakistan has definitively rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s “baseless and unfounded” claims that its nationals are involved in the conflict in Ukraine, stating that no credible evidence has been presented to support such accusations.
The Foreign Office’s response came a day after President Zelensky alleged that Ukrainian troops in northeastern Ukraine were fighting against foreign “mercenaries” from various countries, including China, Pakistan, and parts of Africa, and vowed a response. Zelensky has previously accused Moscow of recruiting Chinese fighters for its war effort against Ukraine, charges which Beijing denied, while North Korea has also reportedly provided thousands of its own troops in Russia’s Kursk region.
In a post on X after visiting a frontline area in the northeastern Kharkiv region, Zelensky claimed, “We spoke with commanders about the frontline situation, the defense of Vovchansk, and the dynamics of the battles.” He further alleged that “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.”
Responding to the allegations, the Foreign Office stated, “The Government of Pakistan categorically rejects the baseless and unfounded allegations of the involvement of Pakistani nationals in the conflict in Ukraine.” It added, “To date, Pakistan has not been formally approached by the Ukrainian authorities, nor has any verifiable evidence been presented to substantiate such claims.” The FO further said that the Pakistani government would address this matter with Ukrainian authorities to seek clarification. Islamabad also reaffirmed its commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict through dialogue and diplomacy, in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter.
