Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of enlisting fighters from 47 countries to bolster its military efforts in Ukraine, underscoring Moscow’s reliance on foreign combatants. Speaking at a United Nations meeting, Zelensky highlighted the involvement of individuals from nations such as Ghana, Nepal, and India. He specifically mentioned two North Korean soldiers who were reportedly captured while fighting for Russia and subsequently transferred to South Korea.
Zelensky also drew attention to the increasing military partnership between Russia and North Korea, warning that Moscow continues to seek additional resources and manpower to sustain its war campaign. Concerns over this partnership have been growing as Russia appears to be widening its international military collaborations.
Amid these developments, Ukraine is actively working to strengthen its own military capabilities through international cooperation. Zelensky noted that Ukraine has inked drone technology agreements with Finland and Australia and is in the process of finalizing a similar accord with Canada. This move aims to enhance Ukraine’s strategic capabilities, especially as the conflict persists.
The Ukrainian President further warned of potential retaliatory strikes on Russian energy infrastructure if Russian attacks on Ukraine’s own energy facilities continue. He clarified that any such Ukrainian actions would target Russia’s war revenues rather than its civilian energy supplies. This statement comes as the United States has been urging both Russia and Ukraine to refrain from targeting each other’s energy infrastructures, particularly in the run-up to winter.