Zelensky has put forth a controversial claim stating that at least 155 Chinese nationals are fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine. This assertion follows the recent capture of two Chinese fighters, marking Ukraine's first official disclosure of alleged Chinese manpower being utilized in the conflict. While addressing journalists, Zelensky mentioned that intelligence reports indicate a significant number of Chinese citizens are involved in the war, emphasizing that they possess identifiable specifics including surnames and passport details.
In response, a Chinese government spokesperson urged all involved parties to accurately understand China's position, insisting that the country neither instigates nor participates in the ongoing crisis. Foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian reiterated China's commitment to a peaceful resolution and remarked that any Chinese individuals fighting in Ukraine are doing so in a personal capacity. Beijing has consistently denied allegations regarding its citizens participating in military activities on behalf of Russia, labeling such claims as unfounded.
Earlier claims by Zelensky highlighted confrontations with Chinese troops in Ukraine's Donetsk region, asserting that Russian forces are recruiting Chinese nationals via social media. Zelensky accused Moscow of training these recruits in Russia, issuing them migration documents and payments. Following the capture of the two Chinese fighters, both shared accounts of their military experience, revealing confusion and apprehension about their situation.
Zelensky characterized the involvement of Chinese citizens in the conflict as a potentially escalatory move on Russia’s part and called for international support to address what he deems a serious issue. Meanwhile, the U.S. government has expressed concern about the involvement of Chinese soldiers on the battlefield. Throughout the ongoing conflict, Ukraine has challenged China's proclaimed neutrality, raising suspicion about the nature of China's support for Russia, particularly concerning military resources.
While China and Russia maintain a close political alliance, Beijing has sought to portray itself as a neutral party, avoiding the supply of lethal arms. Recent assertions have indicated that China is conscientious in managing its exports of dual-use technologies that could have military applications, stressing compliance with established legal frameworks. The rise in allegations about foreign fighters in the conflict follows Ukraine's capture of North Korean soldiers, illustrating the complexity and international ramifications of the ongoing war.
In response, a Chinese government spokesperson urged all involved parties to accurately understand China's position, insisting that the country neither instigates nor participates in the ongoing crisis. Foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian reiterated China's commitment to a peaceful resolution and remarked that any Chinese individuals fighting in Ukraine are doing so in a personal capacity. Beijing has consistently denied allegations regarding its citizens participating in military activities on behalf of Russia, labeling such claims as unfounded.
Earlier claims by Zelensky highlighted confrontations with Chinese troops in Ukraine's Donetsk region, asserting that Russian forces are recruiting Chinese nationals via social media. Zelensky accused Moscow of training these recruits in Russia, issuing them migration documents and payments. Following the capture of the two Chinese fighters, both shared accounts of their military experience, revealing confusion and apprehension about their situation.
Zelensky characterized the involvement of Chinese citizens in the conflict as a potentially escalatory move on Russia’s part and called for international support to address what he deems a serious issue. Meanwhile, the U.S. government has expressed concern about the involvement of Chinese soldiers on the battlefield. Throughout the ongoing conflict, Ukraine has challenged China's proclaimed neutrality, raising suspicion about the nature of China's support for Russia, particularly concerning military resources.
While China and Russia maintain a close political alliance, Beijing has sought to portray itself as a neutral party, avoiding the supply of lethal arms. Recent assertions have indicated that China is conscientious in managing its exports of dual-use technologies that could have military applications, stressing compliance with established legal frameworks. The rise in allegations about foreign fighters in the conflict follows Ukraine's capture of North Korean soldiers, illustrating the complexity and international ramifications of the ongoing war.
