Zelensky Warns of Chinese Involvement in Ukraine Conflict as Recruitment Allegations Surface

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia on Wednesday of involving China in the conflict, asserting that Beijing was aware of the recruitment of numerous Chinese citizens to fight alongside Moscow’s forces.

Zelensky stated that Ukrainian intelligence had identified over 150 Chinese individuals engaged in combat on the front lines, just a day after Ukraine reported the capture of two Chinese citizens in the eastern region of Donetsk.

He confirmed that Ukraine is willing to swap the detained fighters for Ukrainian prisoners of war currently held in Russia.

“The evident participation of Chinese citizens in military activities on Ukrainian soil is a calculated move to escalate the conflict,” he told journalists. “This serves as further proof that Moscow is intent on prolonging the hostilities.”

These remarks were made shortly after Beijing refuted accusations that many of its citizens had aligned with Russian forces, advising its nationals to “stay away from armed conflicts.”

“The situation involving Chinese citizens is serious,” Zelensky stated. “There are 155 individuals identified by name and passport information who are fighting against Ukrainians in Ukraine.”

A document provided to AFP by a senior Ukrainian official claimed that 168 Chinese nationals had been recruited by Russia, as per Ukrainian intelligence.

Zelensky expressed his belief that the actual number is “significantly higher,” and that further information is being collected.

While he refrained from directly accusing Beijing of sending troops, he indicated that Chinese officials are aware of the recruitment processes.

“The methods of recruitment are evident. One approach is via social media, particularly TikTok and other Chinese platforms, where Russians are promoting advertisements,” Zelensky noted. “Beijing is aware of this.”