China Denies Claims of Troops Fighting for Russia Amid Ongoing Conflict

Ukraine claims captured two Chinese nationals fighting for Russia, prompting a rebuttal from China labeling the assertion as unfounded. China maintains it encourages citizens to avoid conflict zones and does not intend to deploy troops in the war. Meanwhile, the situation evolves with ongoing military actions and U.S. concern over China’s support for Russia in the conflict.
Ukraine recently claimed that significant numbers of Chinese nationals are fighting alongside Russian forces, asserting that they captured two Chinese men in the Donetsk region. This marks the first instance of Ukraine alleging the presence of Chinese fighters in the ongoing conflict. In response, a Chinese official dismissed the claims as “totally unfounded,” reiterating China’s commitment to avoiding involvement in armed conflicts.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated that the Chinese government advises its citizens against entering conflict zones and actively participating in military operations. His remarks implied that the captured Chinese individuals may have joined Russia’s military of their own accord.
While China has been a vocal supporter of Russia diplomatically since the invasion began in February 2022, it has not officially sent troops or military equipment to assist Russia in Ukraine. Instead, China has continued to provide economic support through energy and trade. A peace proposal submitted by China has been largely overlooked by international observers.
Discussions have also surfaced regarding North Korean troops allegedly aiding Russia, as both Russia and Ukraine permit foreign enlistment. The U.S. State Department acknowledged reports of Chinese fighters in Ukraine, with spokesperson Tammy Bruce condemning China as a significant enabler of Russia’s war efforts. Bruce noted that nearly 80% of dual-use items needed by Russia come from China.
Amidst escalating tensions with the U.S., particularly over trade and technology, the Kremlin has rejected U.S. calls for a temporary cease-fire in Ukraine, although Ukraine has agreed to such discussions. Meanwhile, both sides are expected to continue their military campaigns along a lengthy front line, marked by long-range attacks.
Recent reports indicate that Kramatorsk, Ukraine, experienced a major drone assault, causing injuries to civilian residents. Ukraine’s military claimed that Russia targeted the country with numerous drones, while Russia reported significant Ukrainian drone activity along its borders. Some flights in Russian regions were briefly suspended due to these attacks, highlighting ongoing hostilities between the nations.
In summary, China has officially rejected Ukraine’s claims of a significant presence of Chinese troops fighting alongside Russia, emphasizing the government’s stance against its citizens participating in conflicts. Both countries continue to engage in military actions, with increased tensions over foreign involvement complicating the situation further. The ongoing war shows little sign of abating as discussions around cease-fires and military actions persist.
Original Source: whdh.com