Foreign Mercenaries from China, Pakistan, Central Asia, and Africa Reportedly Fighting for Russia in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Russia is deploying mercenaries from countries including China, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and several African nations in its ongoing military campaign against Ukraine, particularly in the Vovchansk sector.

During a visit to the frontline, President Zelenskyy met with troops from the 17th Separate Motorized Infantry Battalion of the 57th Brigade, named after Koshovyi Otaman Kost Hordiienko. He discussed key operational matters with commanders, including the current status of the front line, the defense of Vovchansk, and the intensity of ongoing clashes. Other topics included the deployment and effectiveness of drones, troop recruitment, and direct funding for military brigades.

“Our soldiers have identified the presence of mercenaries from China, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, and African nations fighting on this front. We will respond accordingly,” Zelenskyy affirmed.

He also used the occasion to confer state honors on several Ukrainian defenders.

Chinese Fighters Captured

President Zelenskyy revealed that on April 8, Ukrainian forces captured two Chinese nationals who were fighting for Russia in the Donetsk region. He noted that these individuals are not isolated cases, suggesting that a significant number of Chinese citizens may be serving within Russian military ranks.

Later, on June 27, another Chinese citizen 24-year-old Wang Wu was reportedly taken into custody by Ukrainian forces.

Earlier reports from The Telegraph also indicated that Russia has been covertly recruiting individuals from African countries to support its military operations in Ukraine.