Beijing on Wednesday strongly rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's claim that Chinese nationals are fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, calling the assertion "totally unfounded." The diplomatic dispute adds fresh tension to the already strained relations between China and Western governments over the nearly three-year conflict in Eastern Europe.
On Tuesday, Zelenskyy announced that Ukrainian forces had captured two Chinese citizens fighting with Russian troops in the Donetsk region and suggested that "many more" Chinese nationals may be serving in the ranks of the invading army. "Russia's involvement of China, along with other countries, whether directly or indirectly, in this war in Europe is a clear signal that Putin intends to do anything but end the war," Zelenskyy posted on X.
Ukraine's Security Service has taken the two men into custody, and the government says it is continuing to investigate. According to Zelenskyy, identification documents and bank cards were found on the captured individuals, and Kyiv has contacted Beijing for a formal response.
Responding in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian denied any official link, telling reporters: "The Chinese government always asks Chinese citizens to stay away from conflict zones, avoid getting involved in any form of armed conflict, and especially refrain from participating in any party's military operations." Lin added that China has played a "constructive role in politically resolving the Ukraine crisis."
Our military has captured two Chinese citizens who were fighting as part of the Russian army. This happened on Ukrainian territory—in the Donetsk region. Identification documents, bank cards, and personal data were found in their possession.
We have information suggesting that… pic.twitter.com/ekBr6hCkQL — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) April 8, 2025
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha argued that the presence of Chinese nationals among Russian forces "puts into question China's declared stance for peace" and "undermines Beijing's credibility as a responsible permanent member of the UN Security Council."
In Washington, U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said the Biden administration was aware of the reports. "China is a major enabler of Russia in the war in Ukraine," she said, alleging that China supplies nearly 80% of the dual-use goods helping sustain Moscow's war effort.
While there is no evidence Beijing has sent troops, weapons, or military advisors to Russia, China has provided economic support through increased trade in energy and consumer goods. It has also promoted a ceasefire plan widely dismissed as vague and ineffective by Western analysts.
Both Russia and Ukraine allow foreigners to enlist in their armed forces. Previously, Ukrainian and U.S. officials have said that North Korean troops may have fought for Russia under a military cooperation agreement with Pyongyang.
The controversy comes amid renewed hostilities on the battlefield. Ukraine's eastern city of Kramatorsk suffered a drone barrage overnight, injuring three civilians including a child, according to regional governor Vadym Filashkin. The Ukrainian air force reported 55 drones launched by Russia, while the Russian Defense Ministry claimed to have intercepted 158 Ukrainian drones targeting 11 Russian regions.
Meanwhile, a U.S.-backed proposal for a 30-day ceasefire has reportedly been accepted by Kyiv but rejected by the Kremlin. As spring approaches, both sides appear to be preparing for renewed offensives along the 620-mile front line.
