Ukrainian forces have apprehended two Chinese nationals fighting alongside Russian troops in the contested Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed on Tuesday. He indicated that intelligence suggests a larger number of Chinese citizens are participating with the Russian military effort.
While China has not officially acknowledged any involvement, Beijing hasn’t been publicly accused of providing Russia with weaponry or specialized training. It remains unclear whether these individuals volunteered independently to join the conflict.
Both Russia and Ukraine permit foreign nationals to enlist in their respective armed forces.
“I have instructed my top diplomat to immediately contact China,”
Zelenskyy stated. He further suggested that China would become the third nation, following Iran (which has reportedly supplied attack drones) and North Korea (allegedly providing soldiers), to offer military assistance to Russia, according to US and South Korean officials.
China’s diplomatic support for Russia since February 2022 has been substantial, encompassing both political backing and economic aid through trade in vital resources and goods.
The engagement with Chinese soldiers occurred near the villages of Tarasivka and Bilohorivka within Donetsk. According to Zelenskyy, a group of six Chinese military personnel encountered Ukrainian troops, resulting in the capture of two individuals.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha confirmed that the nation’s chargé d’affaires was summoned. Via X (formerly Twitter), he expressed concern: “The presence of Chinese citizens fighting as part of Russia’s invasion army in Ukraine raises serious questions about China’s declared commitment to peace and compromises Beijing’s standing as a responsible permanent member of the UN Security Council.” Zelenskyy also shared footage on X purportedly depicting one of the two captured Chinese citizens.
Despite the ongoing conflict, Russia has reportedly dismissed a US proposal for a 30-day cessation of hostilities. Experts anticipate intensified fighting during the upcoming spring and summer months.
“I don’t see any indications that would lead to a ceasefire or even peace, but I do see many indications (for) the continuation of the war,” stated Nico Lange, a senior fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis in Washington.
During a press conference held alongside visiting Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever, Zelenskyy announced a €1 billion ($1.85 billion) aid package from Belgium for Ukraine this year. Discussions also included potential collaborative military manufacturing and private investment within Ukraine’s defense sector.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Russian Foreign Ministry officials will participate in talks with the US in Istanbul planned for Thursday, though the specific agenda remains undisclosed. The involvement of the foreign ministry suggests a focus on restoring embassy operations and increasing diplomatic staff following years of reciprocal expulsions.
- Iran has reportedly supplied attack drones to Russia.
- North Korea is alleged to have provided soldiers to support Russia’s efforts.
