Kyiv [Ukraine], August 5 (HBTV): Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has alleged that mercenaries from China, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and various African nations are fighting alongside Russian forces in the ongoing conflict.

The claim was made during Zelenskyy’s visit to frontline troops in the Kharkiv region on Monday. While interacting with soldiers of the 17th Separate Motorised Infantry Battalion of the 57th Brigade, he was briefed on the ground realities, including the presence of foreign mercenaries.

‘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,’ Zelenskyy stated on X.

He added, ‘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.’

Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to Ukrainian soldiers for their resilience and commitment. ‘I presented our defenders with state awards. It is an honour for me to be here. Thank you for fighting, serving your state and the Ukrainian people, and for supporting one another,’ he said.

As the war continues, diplomatic efforts have persisted. Russian and Ukrainian officials have held several meetings in Istanbul, Turkiye, in recent months, according to Al Jazeera. The latest round resulted in an agreement to exchange 1,200 prisoners, Zelenskyy announced on Sunday.

Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump recently warned of ‘very severe tariffs’ on Russia if it fails to agree to a ceasefire, shortening his initial 50-day deadline to just 10–12 days.

On Tuesday, three people were killed in a Russian attack on the Stepnohirsk community in Ukraine’s Zaporizhia region, the local military administration said on Telegram. It added that Russia launched 405 attacks across 10 settlements in the region in the past day.

(ANI)