Ukraine Alleges Presence of Chinese Mercenaries Fighting for Russia
Ukraine alleges that over 150 Chinese mercenaries are fighting for Russia, while China denies these claims. President Zelenskyy mentioned the capture of two Chinese fighters and proposed an exchange for Ukrainian soldiers. U.S. officials express concern over China’s support for Russia in the war, emphasizing its role as a significant enabler of Russian military capabilities.
In a recent statement, Ukraine claimed that over 150 Chinese mercenaries are currently fighting on Russia’s side in the ongoing conflict. This information is based on detailed intelligence reportedly gathered by Ukrainian officials, allegedly indicating recruitment efforts via social media. In response, Chinese officials dismiss these claims as “totally unfounded.” The backdrop to this exchange includes ongoing efforts by the U.S. to negotiate a ceasefire in the war, now surpassing three years.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy remarked that two Chinese individuals had been captured while fighting with Russian forces in Ukraine, marking the first instance of such claims regarding Chinese involvement. He expressed willingness to exchange these two prisoners for Ukrainian soldiers in Russian captivity, although he stopped short of asserting direct Chinese government involvement in their recruitment.
Zelenskyy provided journalists with names, passport data, and details of 155 Chinese citizens identified as combatants for the Russian army. He speculated that the actual number of Chinese fighters might be higher than reported. However, the authenticity of the documents shared has not been independently verified.
China has consistently supported Russia diplomatically since its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and has allegedly supplied Russia with machinery and electronics for weapon production. There is no evidence to suggest that China has sent troops, weapons, or military expertise to Russia, unlike Iran and North Korea, which have been accused of providing such support.
The war has increasingly evolved into a conflict of interest among global power blocs, with significant military assistance being provided to Ukraine by the U.S. and Europe. President Zelenskyy noted U.S. officials displayed “surprise” regarding the revelations of Chinese mercenaries in Ukraine.
U.S. State Department officials expressed concerns about Chinese citizens supporting Russia, with spokesperson Tammy Bruce stating that China is a significant enabler for Russia. Notably, she claimed that China supplies nearly 80% of the dual-use goods essential for sustaining Russia’s war effort.
European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas echoed these sentiments, labeling China as a key enabler of Russia’s military actions. She argued that if China genuinely wanted to withdraw its support, it would significantly affect Russia’s capabilities.
The Kremlin has rebuffed a U.S. initiative for a full 30-day ceasefire, while Ukraine has accepted it. Both nations are gearing up for upcoming military operations. Meanwhile, the conflict continues with severe escalations, including a recent drone attack on Kramatorsk that resulted in injuries among civilians.
In summary, Ukraine’s claim about Chinese mercenaries supporting Russia highlights the complex dynamics of international involvement in the ongoing conflict. Although China has diplomatically supported Russia, it has refuted allegations of actively sending combatants. This series of developments underlines the ongoing tension between global power blocs, with Ukraine receiving substantial support from the U.S. and Europe amid the war’s continuation.
Original Source: www.local10.com
