Introduction: On Tuesday, April 8, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukrainian troops had captured two Chinese citizens fighting alongside Russian forces in the Donetsk region. This revelation, backed by evidence including IDs and bank cards, has intensified scrutiny on China’s role in the Russia-Ukraine war, prompting Kyiv to summon Beijing’s envoy and call for a global response. As the conflict enters its fourth year, the involvement of foreign fighters adds a new layer of complexity to an already volatile situation.
Chinese Citizens in Russia’s Ranks
Zelensky revealed the captures in a social media post, stating, “Our military captured two Chinese citizens who fought in the Russian army… in the Donetsk region.” Accompanying the claim was a video of an alleged prisoner, along with images of confiscated documents. He suggested that “many more Chinese citizens” may be involved, raising alarms about Moscow’s recruitment tactics. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga criticized China’s neutrality, arguing that such actions “undermine Beijing’s credibility” as a UN Security Council member. China has yet to respond officially.
Global Implications and Calls for Action
China, a close ally of Russia since the 2022 invasion, has maintained it does not provide lethal aid, unlike Western nations supporting Ukraine. However, NATO has labeled Beijing a “decisive enabler” of Moscow’s war efforts. Zelensky demanded explanations from Beijing and urged a reaction from the U.S., Europe, and peace-seeking nations, warning, “Putin is going to do anything but end the war.” At a Kyiv press conference, he stressed, “The United States should pay more attention to what is happening today.” For more on the conflict, visit nato.int.
Foreign Fighters and Escalating Tensions
The war has drawn thousands of foreign fighters, including North Korean troops recently deployed to Russia’s Kursk region. Zelensky highlighted this trend, noting, “The North Koreans fought against us in Kursk, the Chinese are fighting on the territory of Ukraine.” Ukraine, struggling to hold ground after a 2024 offensive, has pressed Western partners for stronger responses. Kyiv has also sought to engage China diplomatically, appointing a new ambassador to Beijing this week after a 2024 visit by then-Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba. Learn more about Ukraine’s stance at president.gov.ua.
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По материалам: http://www.planet-today.com/2025/04/ukraine-captures-chinese-fighters-with.html