Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made a serious allegation, claiming that over 150 Chinese nationals are fighting alongside Russian troops on Ukrainian soil. He warned that Russia is trying to drag China into its ongoing war with Ukraine.
Speaking at a press conference in Kyiv, Zelensky revealed that Ukraine had the names and passport details of 155 Chinese individuals who had joined Russian forces. A document shared with AFP even included a list of 168 Chinese citizens, which Ukraine says was gathered through intelligence operations.
“Such an overt involvement of Chinese citizens in combat operations on Ukrainian territory is a deliberate step towards expanding the war,” Zelensky said.
Ukraine Ready for POW Exchange
Zelensky also stated that two Chinese nationals were recently captured by Ukrainian troops in the eastern Donetsk region. He offered to release them in exchange for Ukrainian prisoners of war held by Russia.
The Ukrainian army released a video showing one of the captured individuals in military uniform, hands tied, making sounds resembling gunfire and speaking in Mandarin. The military also claimed to have found Chinese ID cards and Russian military contracts on them.
China Denies Claims
In response, China’s foreign ministry called Zelensky’s allegations “absolutely groundless.” Spokesman Lin Jian insisted that the Chinese government advises its citizens to stay away from war zones and avoid any kind of armed conflict.
“Beijing is verifying the information with Kyiv,” Lin said, while also warning its citizens to steer clear of armed engagements.
Despite denying direct involvement, Zelensky accused Chinese authorities of being aware that their citizens were being recruited—primarily through platforms like TikTok and other Chinese social networks where Russian forces post military job ads.
U.S. Concern and Military Aid
Zelensky added that the United States was shocked by reports of Chinese fighters aiding Russia and found it “unacceptable.” Ukraine is expected to meet with U.S. officials next week to discuss further military cooperation.
Zelensky emphasized that Kyiv is prepared to spend $30 to $50 billion to purchase U.S. military equipment to continue resisting Russia’s advances.
A Wider Pattern?
Zelensky also reminded reporters that Russia had earlier involved North Korea, allegedly bringing in over 10,000 soldiers after Ukraine’s surprise attack in the western Kursk region.
“This is the second mistake for Russia. The first was North Korea. Now, they’re dragging China into this war,” Zelensky remarked.
Final Word
While China maintains it is neutral, its close ties with Moscow and refusal to condemn the invasion have drawn criticism. NATO recently labeled Beijing a “decisive enabler” of Russia’s war efforts.
The involvement of foreign nationals, especially from major world powers like China, could mark a dangerous escalation in the Ukraine conflict, raising international concerns over a broader regional or even global confrontation.