Zelensky: Two Chinese Nationals Captured Fighting for Russia in Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed that Ukrainian forces have captured two Chinese nationals fighting for the Russian military in the Donetsk region, escalating concerns over China’s perceived neutrality in the ongoing war.
“Our military captured two Chinese citizens who fought in the Russian army. This happened on the territory of Ukraine — in the Donetsk region,” Zelensky announced via social media, accompanying the statement with a video of one of the alleged prisoners.
According to the Ukrainian leader, authorities recovered the prisoners’ documents, bank cards, and other personal data, which will be used to support their demand for an explanation from Beijing.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga stated that China’s charge d’affaires had been summoned for an official explanation, expressing deep concern over the revelation. “Chinese citizens fighting as part of Russia’s invasion army in Ukraine puts into question China’s declared stance for peace and undermines Beijing’s credibility as a responsible permanent member of the UN Security Council,” said Sybiga.
China has maintained that it is a neutral party in the war and has denied providing lethal assistance to either side. However, its close economic and political alliance with Moscow, and refusal to condemn Russia’s invasion, has led Western powers to brand Beijing a “decisive enabler” of the conflict.
Zelensky noted that the captured individuals are not isolated cases, saying Kyiv has evidence of “many more Chinese citizens” involved in Russia’s war effort. He instructed Ukraine’s foreign ministry to urgently seek clarification from China.
“This is a clear signal that Putin is going to do anything but end the war,” Zelensky warned. “The North Koreans fought against us in the Kursk region, the Chinese are fighting on the territory of Ukraine. And I think this is an important point that we need to discuss with our partners—urgently.”
Zelensky urged a global response, particularly from the United States and Europe. “I think the United States should pay more attention to what is happening today,” he stated during a press conference.
Images released by Ukrainian officials showed one of the Chinese captives in military uniform, hands bound, mimicking explosion gestures during questioning. Ukrainian authorities also shared photos of ID cards and bank cards seized from the suspects.
The conflict, now in its fourth year, has attracted foreign fighters from various nations. Ukraine has recently voiced alarm over reports of thousands of North Korean soldiers being deployed by Russia to the border region of Kursk.
Despite efforts to maintain diplomatic channels, including appointing a new ambassador to China this week, Kyiv’s relationship with Beijing may face increased strain.
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Zelensky: Two Chinese Nationals Captured Fighting for Russia in Ukraine