Zelensky Claims Capture of Chinese Nationals Fighting for Russia in Donetsk
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported on Tuesday that two Chinese citizens, allegedly fighting for Russian forces, were captured by Ukrainian troops in the Donetsk region.
Key Details:
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The individuals were detained during combat and were found carrying personal identification, including bank cards.
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A video showing one of the detainees speaking Mandarin Chinese was released by Zelensky’s office.
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Zelensky stated that intelligence suggests a larger number of Chinese nationals may be involved with Russian military units in Ukraine.
Ukrainian Response:
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Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry summoned China’s chargé d’affaires in Kyiv, demanding clarification from Beijing regarding the involvement of Chinese citizens in the conflict.
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Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha expressed concerns, stating that the incident casts doubt on China’s self-proclaimed neutral stance in the war. “Chinese citizens fighting as part of Russia’s invasion army in Ukraine puts into question China’s declared stance for peace,” Sybiha said.
International Reactions:
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The US State Department labeled the reports as “disturbing” and described China as a “major enabler” of Russia’s war, pointing to the provision of dual-use goods, such as semiconductors and aircraft parts, to Russia.
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President Zelensky urged the international community, including the US and European nations, to respond to the growing concerns over China’s involvement.
Russia and China’s Silence:
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Neither Russia nor China have issued statements in response to Zelensky’s claims.
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Beijing has previously denied supplying military aid to either side and continues to position itself as a neutral party in the conflict.
Other Concerns:
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Zelensky also expressed concerns about Russia’s use of North Korean troops in the conflict, differentiating their role from that of Chinese nationals who were caught fighting directly in Ukraine.
Ongoing Investigation:
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Ukrainian security services are conducting an investigation into the two detained Chinese nationals, with further details yet to emerge.
The capture of the two Chinese nationals fighting for Russia has raised questions about China’s role in the ongoing conflict. With Beijing maintaining a stance of neutrality, the incident challenges this position, prompting calls for international scrutiny and response. The situation remains fluid as both China and Russia have yet to address the allegations.
