Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed on Tuesday that Chinese nationals had been captured by Ukrainian forces while fighting alongside Russian troops in the Donetsk region, raising serious concerns over foreign involvement in the ongoing conflict.
In a social media post, Zelensky stated, “Our military captured Chinese citizens who fought in the Russian army. This happened on the territory of Ukraine — in the Donetsk region.” He said that authorities had recovered documents, bank cards, and other personal data from the detainees, and he also shared video footage allegedly showing one of the captured individuals.
China has repeatedly asserted its neutrality in the war and denies providing any lethal aid to either side. However, it remains a key political and economic partner of Russia. NATO, meanwhile, has described China as a “decisive enabler” of Russia’s invasion—an accusation China has not directly addressed.
Zelensky said Ukraine possesses evidence that more Chinese nationals may be fighting for Russia and has instructed the Foreign Ministry to immediately seek an explanation from Beijing.
“This is a clear signal that Putin is willing to escalate rather than resolve the war,” Zelensky said. He also urged a firm response from the United States, European nations, and the broader international community, saying, “I think the United States should pay more attention to what is happening today.”
The Ukrainian president emphasized that Chinese nationals were not the only foreigners aiding Russian forces. He cited reports of North Korean troops engaging Ukrainian forces in Russia’s Kursk region.
“The North Koreans fought against us in the Kursk region, and the Chinese are fighting on the territory of Ukraine. This is a serious development that must be urgently discussed with our international partners,” Zelensky stressed during a press conference in Kyiv.
Ukraine has been working to strengthen ties with China. Last year, then-Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba visited Beijing, and earlier this week, Zelensky appointed a new Ukrainian ambassador to China, signaling Kyiv’s continued interest in diplomatic engagement.
