Ukrainian soldiers capture 2 Chinese fighting in Russian army in Donetsk region
Photo: President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (president.gov.ua)
The Ukrainian military captured 2 Chinese citizens who fought in the Russian army. It happened in the Donetsk region, according to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The Ukrainian side has the documents of these prisoners, bank cards, and personal data.
"We have information suggesting that there are many more Chinese citizens in the occupier's units than just these two. We are currently verifying all the facts—intelligence, the Security Service of Ukraine, and the relevant units of the Armed Forces are working on it," the President said.
Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga must immediately contact Beijing and find out how China is going to respond.
"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. He is looking for ways to continue fighting. This definitely requires a response. A response from the United States, Europe, and all those around the world who want peace," Zelensky said.
The captured Chinese citizens are currently being held by the Security Service of Ukraine.
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.
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) April 8, 2025
We have information suggesting that… pic.twitter.com/ekBr6hCkQL
China-Russia friendship
Since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, China has claimed to be neutral in the war. Officially, Beijing allegedly does not provide military assistance to the parties. However, many Chinese companies continue to supply Russia with dual-use goods.
Russia's Vladimir Putin and China's Xi Jinping are comrades. In particular, last May, Putin visited China, and despite sanctions imposed by Ukraine's partners, China and Russia are actively developing an economic partnership.
Moreover, Beijing had earlier presented its peace plan for Ukraine, which included a call for the resumption of negotiations and criticism of sanctions. In the fall of 2024, it became known that China and Brazil had developed a joint peace plan.
At the same time, Beijing expressed its readiness to join the post-war reconstruction of Ukraine.
