Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused China of indirectly fueling Russia’s war efforts by allowing its citizens to fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine. According to Zelensky, Ukrainian forces recently captured two Chinese nationals during combat in the eastern Donetsk region, marking the first time Kyiv has officially alleged Chinese involvement in supplying manpower to Russia.
In remarks made to journalists, Zelensky claimed that a total of 155 Chinese citizens have been identified as participating in the war on Russia’s side. He added that these individuals were recruited via social media, trained in Moscow, and provided with documentation and financial compensation before being sent to the front lines.
“This is a serious issue,” Zelensky emphasized. “We have names, passport data—clear proof.”
A video posted by Zelensky on X (formerly Twitter) showed what he said were interrogations of the two captured Chinese fighters. Speaking in Mandarin, the men detailed their backgrounds, stating they had no prior combat experience and were captured alongside Russian troops. One soldier admitted it was his first time ever handling a weapon.
Beijing has pushed back strongly against the allegations. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian responded by advising “all parties” to approach the situation calmly and avoid “irresponsible remarks.” He maintained that China is not a participant in the conflict and reiterated the government’s position that Chinese citizens are forbidden from entering active war zones or participating in any military action abroad.
China has denied any official role in recruiting or sending citizens to fight in Ukraine, calling the accusations baseless. However, Zelensky suggested that Beijing is aware of the recruitment and turning a blind eye.
“Ukraine believes this blatant involvement of Chinese nationals is a deliberate move to escalate the war,” Zelensky stated, urging the U.S. and international community to respond.
The U.S. described the reports as “disturbing,” echoing long-standing concerns over China’s role in supporting Russia indirectly. Washington and its allies have previously accused Beijing of helping Russia by providing dual-use technologies—like drones and semiconductors—that can be used for military purposes.
Earlier this week, Ukraine also reported capturing two North Korean soldiers fighting for Russia, raising further concerns that Moscow may be outsourcing manpower from its allies amid ongoing battlefield losses.
Despite China’s claims of neutrality, Kyiv continues to question its true stance. Zelensky has previously accused Beijing of supplying components for Russian weapons and called for a more consistent and transparent position.
As international tensions rise, the Ukrainian president is urging world leaders to take these developments seriously—warning that turning a blind eye could embolden Russia and deepen the war.
