China denies claims of citizens fighting with Russia in Ukraine

Wednesday 09 April 2025 - 15:06

By: Zahouani Ilham

China denies claims of citizens fighting with Russia in Ukraine

On Wednesday, China strongly rejected claims made by Kyiv that a significant number of Chinese citizens are fighting alongside Russian forces against Ukraine. The Chinese government termed the accusations as "absolutely groundless."

China's foreign ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, reaffirmed Beijing's clear stance on the Ukraine crisis, highlighting that it has received widespread international approval. The ministry also urged Chinese citizens to refrain from traveling to conflict zones or getting involved in military operations.

While there is no evidence suggesting that China has provided Russia with weapons or military support, it remains uncertain whether Chinese citizens have joined the conflict independently. Both Russia and Ukraine permit foreign nationals to enlist in their armed forces.

Lin Jian added that the Chinese government is verifying the claims with Ukrainian authorities. Furthermore, he reiterated that China consistently advises its citizens to avoid participating in armed conflicts.

Ukraine's military had reported capturing two Chinese nationals fighting alongside Russian troops in Donetsk, and President Volodymyr Zelensky suggested that more Chinese citizens might be involved. Zelensky went on to state that China could become the third country to offer military aid to Russia, following Iran's supply of drones and North Korea's provision of soldiers.

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, China has provided diplomatic and economic support to Russia, particularly through energy and trade.

Zelensky also mentioned a clash near Tarasivka and Bilohorivka, where six Chinese soldiers fought Ukrainian forces. Two Chinese individuals were taken prisoner. In response, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha summoned China’s chargé d’affaires, demanding clarification on the situation. Sybiha expressed concerns about China’s credibility, given its proclaimed stance on peace and its position as a permanent member of the UN Security Council.

Meanwhile, Russia dismissed a U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire, with both sides preparing for further military engagements in the coming months. Ukraine’s President Zelensky announced new support from Belgium, including a €1 billion aid package. The discussions also focused on expanding military production and Belgian private investments in Ukraine’s defense sector.

Additionally, Russian officials are set to meet with U.S. diplomats in Istanbul to discuss embassy operations and staff exchanges, though the precise agenda remains unclear.