- Ukraine claims 155 Chinese nationals are fighting for Russia.
- China calls the allegations “groundless” and urges neutrality.
- Zelenskyy releases video of captured Chinese soldiers, seeks POW exchange.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has alleged that China’s nationals are being recruited by Russia to fight in the war. He stated that two Chinese fighters were captured in Donetsk.
China, in response, has firmly rejected the allegations, labeling them “irresponsible remarks.” Beijing reiterated that it advises its citizens to avoid war zones and does not support direct involvement in armed conflicts.
Tensions Rise as Zelenskyy Links Chinese Recruits to Russian War Effort
The controversy has sparked fresh tension between Kyiv and Beijing. This comes just as international focus shifts to upcoming NATO and defense summits. Zelenskyy’s remarks are seen by some analysts as a strategic move to pressure China and galvanize further Western support. The video of the captured Chinese nationals is likely intended to bolster Ukraine’s credibility amid Beijing’s denials.
Zelenskyy indicated that the U.S. was “very surprised” by the discovery. This suggests that Western allies were previously unaware of this dimension of foreign involvement. The timing of these revelations coincides with heightened lobbying efforts by Ukraine. They are seeking critical air defense systems, especially Patriot missiles, to fend off intensified Russian assaults.
China continues to walk a delicate line, balancing its alliance with Russia while trying to avoid becoming a direct party to the conflict. Despite strong trade and diplomatic ties with Moscow, Beijing insists it plays a neutral role and seeks a diplomatic end to the war.
Meanwhile, Russia has remained silent on the matter. Its lack of response may indicate either a strategic deflection or a desire to avoid diplomatic escalation with China. The Kremlin’s silence also adds to the ambiguity around the actual number and role of foreign nationals fighting alongside its forces.
As the war in Ukraine grows more complex, the potential involvement of Chinese nationals adds a volatile layer to the geopolitical stakes. Whether this is a recruitment loophole or a deeper tactic by Moscow, the implications for international diplomacy are significant.
“They drag other countries into war.” – Volodymyr Zelenskyy
