The two Chinese nationals were “fighting as part of the Russian army” in Donetsk — and Kyiv intelligence indicates they may not be alone.Telegram / @Volodymyr Zelensky/AFP via Getty Images
| Published April 9, 2025
In a development that has raised international concerns, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the capture of two Chinese nationals fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine’s Donetsk region. This revelation has sparked questions about China’s role in the ongoing conflict and the broader implications for global diplomacy.
The Capture and Its Immediate Aftermath
According to President Zelenskyy, Ukrainian troops apprehended the two Chinese individuals during combat operations in Donetsk. The circumstances surrounding their involvement remain under investigation, with Ukrainian authorities seeking to determine whether these individuals were acting independently as mercenaries or if their participation was state-sponsored. The detainees were reportedly found with personal identification documents and bank cards, which are currently being examined by Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) to ascertain their backgrounds and motives.
China’s Position and International Reactions
China has consistently maintained a stance of neutrality regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. However, the presence of Chinese nationals on the battlefield supporting Russian troops challenges this position. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha emphasized that such involvement contradicts Beijing’s declarations of neutrality and peace, calling into question its credibility as a United Nations Security Council member.
In response to the capture, Ukraine has summoned China’s chargé d’affaires to seek clarification and express concerns over the incident. As of now, there has been no official statement from Beijing regarding the matter.
“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,” President Volodymyr Zelensky said.REUTERS
Broader Implications and Russia’s Use of Foreign Fighters
The involvement of foreign nationals in the Russia-Ukraine war is not unprecedented. Reports indicate that Russia has enlisted fighters from various countries, including North Korea, Nepal, and several Central Asian nations. Notably, a contingent of approximately 12,000 North Korean troops has been deployed to support Russian operations, particularly in regions like Kursk. The capture of two North Korean soldiers by Ukrainian forces earlier this year highlighted this trend.
The recruitment of foreign fighters by Russia underscores its efforts to bolster its military capabilities amid ongoing hostilities. However, this strategy has drawn criticism and raised ethical and legal questions about the use of mercenaries and the potential coercion involved in their enlistment.
Footage of a restrained soldier appearing to explain his experience in a battle in a mix of Chinese and English to his captor has been published by President Volodymyr Zelensky. Speaking alongside Belgian Prime Minister Bart de Wever during that nationalist politician’s first trip to Kyiv, Zelensky said during a battle in Donetsk — a Ukrainian region since the end of the Cold War — his armed forces engaged a squad of half a dozen Chinese soldiers.
Two of them were captured, he said, stating they found on the men “documents, their passports, even credit cards. They are Chinese citizens. I think this is a very important element”. Zelensky said “we have information” there are more Chinese fighters ” in the occupier’s units” than just this small group, and “we are currently verifying all the facts”.
Potential Consequences and the Path Forward
The capture of Chinese nationals fighting for Russia could have significant diplomatic repercussions. It places China in a delicate position, potentially straining its relations with both Russia and Ukraine, as well as affecting its global standing. The incident may prompt Beijing to reassess its policies and take measures to prevent its citizens from participating in foreign conflicts.
For Ukraine, this development serves as a testament to the complex international dimensions of the conflict. It highlights the need for continued vigilance and underscores the importance of international support in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by foreign involvement in the war.
As the situation evolves, the international community will be closely monitoring China’s response and the broader implications for global diplomacy and security.
SOURCES: CHANNEL NEWS ASIA – Zelenskyy says Ukraine captured two Chinese nationals fighting for Russia
THE TIMES – Chinese citizens captured fighting for Russia, says Zelensky
THE NEW YORK POST – Chinese troops caught fighting for Russia in Ukraine as Kyiv pushes into Belgorod region
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