Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that at least 155 Chinese nationals are fighting alongside Russian forces in the ongoing war in Ukraine. This statement follows the recent capture of two Chinese fighters, marking the first official accusation by Kyiv that China may be contributing manpower to Russia's war efforts.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, Zelensky reiterated his government's findings, asserting that "many more" Chinese citizens are involved in the conflict based on intelligence gathered by Ukrainian authorities.
China has previously denied such claims, stating that there is "no truth" to the allegations that its citizens are fighting for Russia. As of now, Beijing has not responded to President Zelensky’s latest remarks.
Zelensky accused Russia of using social media to recruit Chinese citizens into its military ranks, adding that "Beijing is fully aware of this." According to the Ukrainian leader, those recruited allegedly undergo training in Moscow before being deployed to the battlefield in Ukraine and are paid for their involvement.
He further emphasized that Russia's recruitment of foreign nationals, including Chinese citizens, is a clear indication that President Vladimir Putin has no intention of ending the war and is instead escalating the conflict through international support.
The United States has labeled the Ukrainian reports as "concerning," indicating growing international alarm over the potential involvement of Chinese nationals in the war on Russia's side.
