Zelenskyy Accuses Pakistan of Fueling Russia's War-Islamabad Fires Back

ISLAMABAD - August 6, 2025 - Pakistan has lashed out at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy over claims that Pakistani nationals are fighting as mercenaries for Russia in Ukraine's northeastern war zone, calling the accusation "baseless, unfounded, and irresponsible."

In a strongly worded statement issued Tuesday, Pakistan's Foreign Ministry rejected the claim outright, saying no evidence had been shared and that Ukraine had never officially raised the issue through diplomatic channels.

"To date, Pakistan has not been approached by Ukrainian authorities, nor have we received any verifiable proof supporting these serious allegations," the statement read. "We categorically reject this narrative, which appears to be driven more by political optics than facts."

Zelenskyy Sparks Diplomatic Storm

The controversy erupted after Zelenskyy posted on X (formerly Twitter) during a visit to troops in the Vovchansk region, claiming his soldiers were fighting against foreign fighters from several nations-including Pakistan.

"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 wrote.

While he didn't provide names or specific proof, the sweeping claim has sparked outrage in Islamabad, which says it was blindsided by the accusation.

Islamabad Warns Against Reckless Claims

Pakistan says it will now seek formal clarification from Ukraine but also warned against reckless statements that risk undermining its neutral stance on the conflict.

"Such irresponsible allegations not only strain diplomatic ties but also mislead global public opinion," the Foreign Ministry said. "Pakistan stands by its long-held position: peace in Ukraine must come through dialogue and diplomacy-not through blame games."

The ministry reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to the UN Charter and peaceful conflict resolution.

Geopolitical Fallout?

Observers say the Ukrainian president's decision to name countries like Pakistan and China-both of which maintain complex but non-aligned relationships with Russia-could further complicate Kyiv's global diplomacy efforts. Some analysts suggest Zelenskyy may be attempting to apply pressure on nations he perceives as not doing enough to isolate Moscow.

But critics argue the move could backfire.

"Making explosive allegations without evidence only weakens Kyiv's credibility and needlessly alienates countries that have maintained neutrality," said a former Pakistani diplomat.

As of now, there is no independent verification of any Pakistani nationals fighting for Russia in Ukraine.