Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that two Chinese nationals were captured fighting alongside Russian forces in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine, demanding answers from Beijing on its role in the ongoing war amid escalating global tensions.
"We have information suggesting that there are many more Chinese citizens in the occupier’s units than just these two," Zelensky said in a message on X. "We are currently verifying all the facts — intelligence, the Security Service of Ukraine, and the relevant units of the Armed Forces are working on it."
Zelenskyy said he had instructed the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine to immediately contact Beijing and seek clarification. "Russia’s involvement of China, along with other countries, whether directly or indirectly, in this war in Europe is a clear signal that Putin intends to do anything but end the war. He is looking for ways to continue fighting," he added.
Zelenskyy said this situation required a response from the United States, Europe, and those "who wanted peace". The captured Chinese soldiers were in the custody of the Security Service of Ukraine.
According to Zelenskyy, a clash involving Chinese soldiers took place near the villages of Tarasivka and Bilohorivka in Donetsk, where six Chinese nationals reportedly engaged Ukrainian troops. Two of them were taken as prisoners.
China has offered strong diplomatic backing to Russia since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. It has also provided an economic lifeline through energy trade and consumer goods.
|
China urges citizens to avoid war zones The Chinese foreign ministry urged its citizens to avoid conflict zones and participate in wars after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said troops had captured two Chinese citizens fighting alongside Russian forces, AFP reported. "The Chinese side is verifying relevant information with the Ukrainian side," spokesman Lin Jian said, adding: "The Chinese government has always asked its citizens to stay away from areas of armed conflict (and) avoid involvement in armed conflicts in any form". |
