In a startling announcement, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has asserted that at least 155 Chinese citizens are actively fighting for Russia in the ongoing conflict, raising concerns about Beijing's involvement. Zelensky's remarks follow the recent capture of two Chinese fighters, marking Kyiv's first definitive accusation that China is indirectly supplying manpower to Russia. The president noted the government's acquisition of information suggesting more Chinese nationals may be involved in the war.
Zelensky Claims Over 150 Chinese Nationals Are Fighting for Russia
Zelensky Claims Over 150 Chinese Nationals Are Fighting for Russia
Ukrainian President accuses Beijing of permitting Chinese citizens to participate in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, as tensions continue to escalate.
Zelensky's statements were made during a press briefing, where he emphasized the seriousness of this issue. He mentioned that there are "155 people with surnames, with passport data" fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, information which he claims is backed by credible evidence gathered by Ukrainian authorities. The president alleged that Russia is utilizing social media platforms to recruit individuals from China, who supposedly receive training in Moscow before deployment to the battlefield, alongside assurances of documentation and compensation.
These accusations come amid China's firm denial of such claims, with its Foreign Ministry urging caution from its citizens regarding involvement in armed conflict. The Chinese government has reiterated its stance of advising nationals to avoid participation in military operations, while also emphasizing its intent to promote a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine crisis. China's spokesperson indicated that they are still assessing the situation with Ukraine.
The implications of Zelensky's claims are significant, as they suggest a deepening of foreign involvement in the conflict, with the U.S. describing the reports as "disturbing." The ongoing war has already seen controversies surrounding China's declared neutrality, with past allegations suggesting Beijing's facilitation of arms production for Russia.
As the situation unfolds, tensions between Ukraine, Russia, and China continue to heighten, with Zelensky's remarks stirring international scrutiny over the potential ramifications of Chinese involvement in this protracted conflict.
These accusations come amid China's firm denial of such claims, with its Foreign Ministry urging caution from its citizens regarding involvement in armed conflict. The Chinese government has reiterated its stance of advising nationals to avoid participation in military operations, while also emphasizing its intent to promote a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine crisis. China's spokesperson indicated that they are still assessing the situation with Ukraine.
The implications of Zelensky's claims are significant, as they suggest a deepening of foreign involvement in the conflict, with the U.S. describing the reports as "disturbing." The ongoing war has already seen controversies surrounding China's declared neutrality, with past allegations suggesting Beijing's facilitation of arms production for Russia.
As the situation unfolds, tensions between Ukraine, Russia, and China continue to heighten, with Zelensky's remarks stirring international scrutiny over the potential ramifications of Chinese involvement in this protracted conflict.
