Ukraine’s Zelensky says mercenaries from China, Pakistan fighting for Russia

This announcement comes as Ukraine continues to grapple with the brutal war that has claimed countless lives and displaced millions.

During a visit to the front-line troops in the Kharkiv region on Monday, Volodymyr Zelensky met with the brave warriors of the 17th Separate Motorised Infantry Battalion of the 57th Brigade. As he assessed the situation, he learned that foreign mercenaries were on the ground, fighting against Ukrainian forces. "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," Zelensky stated firmly on X.

"We spoke with commanders about the frontline situation, the defence of Vovchansk, and the dynamics of the battles. We also specifically addressed the issues of drone supply and deployment, recruitment, and direct funding for the brigades," he added.