In brief
President Zelensky reports the capture of two Chinese citizens fighting with Russian forces, amid worries about Moscow's intentions for peace negotiations.
President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine announced on Tuesday that two Chinese citizens had been captured while fighting on the side of Russian forces in the Donetsk region. Although he did not directly claim that they were sent by the Chinese military, he noted their presence as indicative of Russia's unwillingness to seek a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.The Ukrainian president mentioned that Kyiv possesses information suggesting that additional Chinese citizens may be involved in fighting for Russia, although he did not provide verifiable evidence to support this claim. Following the announcement, neither the Chinese nor Russian governments responded immediately.Zelensky's comments arise during a sensitive period in the Ukraine-Russia war, particularly as U.S. relations with Russia appear to be shifting, while the Trump administration attempts to facilitate cease-fire discussions. He stated, “Russia’s involvement of China, along with other countries, whether directly or indirectly, in this war is a clear signal that Putin intends to continue the conflict.”The Ukrainian leader directed his foreign minister to reach out to Chinese authorities for clarification on China's stance regarding the situation. In a swift response, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha confirmed he had summoned the Chinese chargé d’affaires to demand answers regarding the matter.
