Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that a growing number of Chinese citizens are fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, raising serious concerns about China's involvement in the ongoing conflict.
**Zelensky Accuses China of Providing Fighters to Russia Amid Ukraine Conflict**
**Zelensky Accuses China of Providing Fighters to Russia Amid Ukraine Conflict**
Ukrainian President claims over 150 Chinese nationals are engaged in combat for Russia, prompting responses from Beijing.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently claimed that more than 155 Chinese citizens are fighting for Russia amid the intensifying conflict in Ukraine. This assertion follows the capture of two Chinese nationals earlier in the week, marking Kyiv’s first official allegation regarding China's direct involvement in supplying manpower to Russian forces.
In a press conference, Zelensky presented passports of the captured fighters and stated that intelligence from his government indicates that "many more" Chinese nationals are engaged in the conflict. He emphasized that Russia has been actively recruiting Chinese citizens through social media platforms and alleged that these recruits often undergo training in Moscow before being deployed to battlefields in Ukraine along with various documentation and financial incentives.
In response to these allegations, a spokesperson for the Chinese government urged parties to accurately assess China’s role in the conflict, stating, “China is neither the creator nor a party to the Ukrainian crisis. We are staunch supporters of a peaceful resolution.” The representative reiterated that the Chinese government has consistently advised its citizens to steer clear of armed conflict zones and not become involved in combat operations.
China has denied any substantial claims about its citizens fighting in Ukraine, labeling such allegations as unfounded. Meanwhile, Zelensky also shared a video appearing to show the captured Chinese soldiers, who spoke in Mandarin about their military experiences. One soldier indicated that this was his first exposure to combat, while both expressed uncertainty about the status of their compatriots.
In his statements, Zelensky highlighted that the involvement of Chinese citizens in the conflict adds a dangerous dimension to the war and calls for a unified international response. The U.S. has expressed concerns regarding these reports, categorizing them as "disturbing."
Historically, Ukraine has criticized China’s purported neutrality, suggesting that it is actively assisting Russia with military supplies. Allegations have arisen concerning Chinese firms enabling the production of munitions and military vehicles that could be utilized against Ukraine. While China insists on a neutral stance, it finds itself under scrutiny for its relationship with Moscow and the nature of its economic exchanges.
The situation intensifies as Ukraine has also captured North Korean soldiers in Russian territory, further highlighting the complex web of alliances being formed amid the ongoing war. As the conflict evolves, the implications of international involvement remain a central concern in discussions about the future of peace in the region.
