India, Aug. 4 -- Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday said that the country's troops in northeastern Ukraine are fighting "mercenaries" from several countries including China, Pakistan and African countries. The Ukrainian leader's claim comes amid the presence of North Korean troops at the frontlines.

"We spoke with the commanders about the situation at the front line, the defense of Vovchansk, and the dynamics of the fighting," Zelensky said, adding that the Ukraine government also addressed issues of drone supply and use, recruitment, and direct funding for brigades.

"The soldiers on this front have noted the participation of mercenaries from China, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, and African countries in the war. We wil...