Ukrainian President Zelensky said on Monday that Ukrainian forces are engaged in combat with foreign mercenaries from China, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and several African countries on the northeastern frontlines, emphasizing that Ukraine will respond accordingly.
In a statement posted on X platform, Zelensky reported visiting the 17th Independent Motorized Infantry Battalion, a part of the 57th Brigade deployed in the Vovchansk direction in the Kharkiv region. The unit is named after Ukrainian historical figure Koshovyi Otaman Kost Hordiienko. He discussed the local situation, defense deployment, progress of the battle, as well as issues related to the use of drones, personnel replenishment, and funding with the commanders.
“We have reports from our soldiers on this front line that mercenaries from China, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, and African countries have appeared on the battlefield. We will respond,” Zelensky said. He also awarded national medals to frontline troops on the same day.
Back in April this year, Zelensky had revealed that Ukrainian forces captured two Chinese citizens fighting for the Russian military in the Donetsk region, and claimed there may be over 150 Chinese nationals among Russian forces. The Chinese authorities denied organized recruitment, stating that these individuals were “individual” volunteers.
According to a report by The Guardian, some recruitment advertisements on Douyin offered high signing bonuses and monthly salaries to encourage Chinese citizens to join the Russian military.
On June 27, Ukrainian forces once again captured a 24-year-old Chinese soldier named Wang Wu. Hailing from Bengbu, Anhui, born on August 25, 2000, Wang Wu had served in the Russian 150th Division’s 102nd Motorized Infantry Regiment, bearing the call sign “Peidao.” After his capture, Wang Wu expressed regret, saying, “I consider signing that contract with the Russian army a shameful choice. I deeply regret it.”
The Telegraph also highlighted that Russia deceitfully recruits citizens from African countries to participate in the war against Ukraine.
As of now, there has been no response from the Russian side regarding the accusations made by Zelensky.