Ankara: On Thursday, China dismissed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's allegations that Chinese citizens are participating in Russian military operations in Ukraine as "irresponsible."

According to Anadolu Agency, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian addressed the media in Beijing, urging parties to view China's role with accuracy and caution, rather than making unwarranted claims. Lin Jian emphasized that China did not initiate the Ukraine crisis and is not a participant in it, reiterating China's commitment to a peaceful resolution of the conflict.

The spokesman highlighted that the Chinese government consistently advises its nationals to avoid regions experiencing armed conflict and to abstain from any military involvement. The comments came in response to Zelenskyy's statement that at least 155 Chinese citizens are fighting for Russia in Ukraine, with two reportedly apprehended in the eastern Donetsk region.

Zelenskyy claimed these incidents are part of a broader, systematic effort by Russia to recruit Chinese nationals for the war, allegedly facilitated within Chinese territory and jurisdiction. Beijing previously stated that these accusations lack factual support and confirmed that the detention of Chinese citizens is under verification with Ukrainian authorities.