Ukrainian President Zelensky announced on Tuesday (April 8) that two Chinese citizens fighting in the Russian military have been arrested in eastern Ukraine.
Zelensky stated that Ukrainian forces have obtained identification documents, bank cards, and personal data belonging to these two Chinese citizens. The individuals were detained in the Donetsk region.
“We have information indicating that there are more than just two Chinese citizens within the occupier’s forces. We are currently investigating all the facts,” Zelensky posted on X, adding, “I have instructed the Ukrainian Foreign Minister to immediately contact Beijing to understand China’s response to this.”
Zelensky also shared a video of one of the detained men on X. However, he did not disclose whether Ukraine believes these Chinese individuals were acting on orders from Beijing.
“Russia allowing Chinese citizens to participate, directly or indirectly, in this European conflict sends a clear signal that Putin is capable of anything but ending the war. He is seeking ways to continue the fight,” Zelensky added.
He further mentioned that Ukrainian intelligence and security officials are currently “verifying all the facts.”
Zelensky also called for a response from the United States and European allies regarding this matter.
The situation involving Chinese citizens fighting in the Russian military in Ukraine has raised concerns internationally, with Zelensky highlighting the need for a coordinated response from the global community to address this troubling development.
The involvement of foreign nationals in the conflict adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance and international cooperation to ensure stability in the region.