Chinese citizens captured fighting for Russia in Ukraine raises global concerns

Tuesday 08 April 2025 - 15:33

By: Zahouani Ilham

Chinese citizens captured fighting for Russia in Ukraine raises global concerns

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed on Tuesday that Ukrainian forces had detained two Chinese nationals who were reportedly fighting alongside Russian troops in the Donetsk region. This unexpected development has prompted Kyiv to seek an official explanation from Beijing and a response from its international partners.

According to Zelensky, the two individuals were found with identification documents, bank cards, and other personal data. A video showing one of the captured Chinese men was also released. The Ukrainian president claimed that intelligence suggests more Chinese nationals may be serving within Russian military units, and investigative efforts are ongoing.

In reaction to the discovery, Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned China’s chargé d'affaires in Kyiv. Andrii Sybiha, a senior official in the Ukrainian presidential office, stated that the involvement of Chinese citizens in Russia’s invasion undermines Beijing’s claim of neutrality and its credibility as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.

Although China maintains that it is not providing lethal aid and positions itself as neutral in the conflict, it remains a close strategic partner to Moscow. NATO has criticized China as a key enabler of Russia’s war, which Beijing has not publicly condemned.

Zelensky further instructed Ukraine’s foreign minister to contact Beijing and request clarification on the Chinese government's stance. He called on the United States, European nations, and the international community to respond firmly, stressing that the situation reflects Russia’s intent to prolong the war with foreign involvement.

At a press conference in Kyiv, Zelensky underscored the increasing complexity of the conflict, highlighting the presence of North Korean troops in the Kursk region and now Chinese fighters in Donetsk. He emphasized the urgent need for discussions with Ukraine’s allies.

Despite efforts to engage with Beijing diplomatically — including a visit by then-Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and the recent appointment of a new ambassador to China — Ukraine now finds its relationship with China under renewed strain.