Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stirred diplomatic tensions by claiming that mercenaries from Pakistan and China are fighting alongside Russian forces in the Kharkiv region. The allegation was made on August 4 via a post on X (formerly Twitter), following Zelensky’s visit to the front lines.
Pakistan’s Swift Rebuttal
- On August 5, Pakistan’s Foreign Office strongly rejected the claim, calling it “baseless and unfounded.”
- Officials clarified that no evidence or formal communication had been shared by Ukrainian authorities.
- Pakistan stated it would seek clarification from Kyiv and reiterated its neutral stance, calling for a peaceful resolution in accordance with the UN Charter.
China Stands by Its Prior Denial
- China did not issue a fresh statement but upheld its earlier categorical denial of such claims.
- Beijing had previously labeled similar accusations by Ukraine as “irresponsible” and reaffirmed its policy discouraging citizens from joining foreign conflicts.
- China maintains its neutral stance, though Western powers continue to criticize its economic ties with Russia, which they argue support Moscow’s war effort.
Geopolitical Context
The fresh allegations come amid rising global scrutiny of foreign actors in the Ukraine war. For Pakistan and China, the claim is seen as politically motivated and lacking substance, aimed at complicating their global diplomatic outreach.
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