Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday claimed arresting two Chinese citizens fighting alongside Russian forces in the eastern Donetsk region, saying Russia involving China is a "clear signal" that President Vladimir Putin does not want to end the war. "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," Zelenskyy said in a statement.
According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy said Kyiv had information that there were more Chinese citizens in Russian military units, which was being verified. "I have instructed the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine to immediately contact Beijing and clarify how China intends to respond to this," Zelenskyy added. The president stated that Russia's involvement of China in the war is a clear indication that Putin intends to continue the conflict.
Zelenskyy emphasized that this development requires a response from the United States, Europe, and other nations advocating for peace. He noted that the captured Chinese citizens are currently held by the Security Service of Ukraine, with investigative and operational actions ongoing.
In a subsequent statement, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha mentioned that Kyiv had summoned China's charge d'affaires in Ukraine to the ministry to condemn the alleged presence of its citizens in the country and demand an explanation. "Chinese citizens fighting as part of Russia's invasion army in Ukraine puts into question China's declared stance for peace and undermines Beijing's credibility as a responsible permanent member of the UN Security Council," he added on X.
There has been no immediate comment from China and Russia. China has previously called for a diplomatic solution to end the ongoing Ukraine war and has commended Russia for engaging in talks with Washington. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Putin had declared a 'no limits' partnership days before the 2022 Ukraine war.