Ukrainian Forces Capture Chinese Nationals Fighting for Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that two Chinese nationals were captured fighting for Russia in the Donbas region. This is the first time Ukraine has accused China of providing military aid to Russia. The incident has sparked concerns globally, with the US and Europe calling for a response.
The two Chinese men were taken into custody along with identification documents, including bank cards with personal information. A video posted by Zelenskyy appears to show one of the captured men. The Ukrainian leader confirmed that the men are being held by security officials and an investigation is ongoing.
Zelenskyy urged the US, Europe, and other peace-seeking countries to respond to the situation. He claimed that the actual number of Chinese fighters in Russia’s army may be higher than two. The Ukrainian government has been battling Russian forces in the Donbas region for years.
International Reaction
The US State Department spokesperson, Vedant Patel, expressed concern over the reports, stating that China’s support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is troubling. China has been accused of providing dual-use items, such as navigation equipment, semiconductors, and jet engine parts, to Russia.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba summoned the Chinese ambassador to Kyiv, demanding an explanation and condemning the involvement of Chinese citizens in the war. This development has raised questions about China’s role in the conflict and its potential implications for global security.
In a similar incident last year, Ukraine and Europe accused North Korea of sending over 10,000 soldiers to fight for Russia. However, Zelenskyy noted that the situation with Chinese fighters is different, as they are fighting on Ukrainian soil, not Russian territory. The capture of Chinese nationals has significant implications for the ongoing conflict and international relations.