ISLAMABAD –
Pakistan on Tuesday firmly rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s claim that Pakistani nationals are involved as mercenaries in the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia, calling the accusation “baseless and unfounded.”
The statement from Islamabad came a day after Zelenskyy, during a visit to the northeastern Kharkiv region, alleged that fighters from several countries — including China, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and African nations — had joined forces opposing Ukraine. The Ukrainian president cited reports from his military personnel to support his assertion.
Responding to the claim, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strongly worded statement denying any Pakistani involvement in the conflict.
“The Government of Pakistan categorically rejects the baseless and unfounded allegations regarding the participation of Pakistani nationals in the Ukraine conflict,” the statement read.
“No formal communication has been received from Ukrainian authorities, nor has any credible or verifiable evidence been shared to substantiate such claims.”
The Foreign Office added that the matter would be raised directly with Ukrainian authorities to seek clarification.
While Pakistan reiterated its neutrality and longstanding policy of non-involvement in foreign wars, the statement underscored Islamabad’s continued support for a diplomatic resolution to the war — in line with the UN Charter.
“Pakistan reaffirms its commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict through dialogue and diplomacy,” the ministry said.
The war in Ukraine, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022, has led to the deaths of thousands on both sides and caused widespread displacement. Despite repeated international calls for peace, fighting continues across various regions, further straining global supply chains and impacting developing economies.
Since the conflict began, Pakistan has taken a cautious diplomatic stance, refraining from condemning Russia outright. Instead, Islamabad has consistently advocated for de-escalation, ceasefire, and constructive dialogue between Kyiv and Moscow. It has also welcomed confidence-building measures such as prisoner exchanges.
In recent months, Pakistan has been working to deepen economic ties with Russia, signing several trade and energy-related agreements amid its ongoing economic challenges at home. However, Pakistani officials insist this growing relationship does not alter their call for a peaceful solution to the Ukraine war.
