Over 150 Chinese Citizens Allegedly Fighting for Russia

Kyiv Claims Chinese Nationals Are Engaged in Combat in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has claimed that more than 150 Chinese citizens are actively participating in Russia’s war against Ukraine, following the capture of two alleged Chinese combatants in the Donetsk region earlier this week.

According to Zelenskyy, the number of Chinese nationals involved may be even higher than currently verified. “We have precise data on over 150 Chinese citizens who were involved in the war against Ukraine by Russia,” he said in a public statement. “Ukraine believes that such blatant involvement of Chinese citizens... is a deliberate step towards the expansion of the war.”

The two individuals, currently being interrogated by Ukrainian forces, were reportedly apprehended while fighting on the Russian side of the front line.

Zelenskyy Links Chinese Involvement to Broader Military Support

Speaking to journalists in Kyiv, Zelenskyy suggested that China is following a pattern established by Iran and North Korea, both of which have been accused of supporting Moscow militarily. “There’s a difference,” he noted. “North Koreans were fighting against us in the Kursk region, while the Chinese were fighting against us in Ukraine.”

Zelenskyy warned that the participation of foreign nationals, particularly from powerful states like China, increases the complexity of Ukraine’s defense. “Ukraine is a strong country, but we can’t fight against multiple countries alone,” he added.

China Rejects Claims, Calls Them "Baseless"

The response from Beijing was swift. At a press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian dismissed the Ukrainian allegations. “Such claim has no basis in facts,” Lin said. “China’s position on the issue of the Ukraine crisis is very clear and is widely recognized by the international community.”

He added that the Chinese government is “verifying the information” provided by Ukrainian authorities regarding the detained individuals and reiterated China’s official policy urging citizens to avoid conflict zones. “The Chinese government always asks Chinese nationals to stay away from areas of armed conflict,” Lin emphasized.

EU Official: China Is a Key Enabler of Russia’s War Effort

Though China has denied direct military involvement, EU High Representative Kaja Kallas reinforced concerns about Beijing’s indirect support for Russia. Speaking at a press conference, Kallas said: “What is clear is that China is a key enabler of Russia’s war. Without Chinese support, Russia would not be able to wage war in the amount that they are waging this war.”

She cited intelligence reports indicating that as much as 80% of dual-use goods entering Russia come through China, suggesting a significant contribution to Moscow’s ongoing military capacity. “If China would want to really stop the support it would have an impact,” she concluded.

As the war enters its third year, Ukraine’s accusation of Chinese nationals fighting on the battlefield adds another layer of geopolitical tension to the conflict. Whether verified or denied, the involvement of foreign individuals—and how their governments respond—could influence both the military dynamics and diplomatic strategies moving forward.

Stay tuned to The Horizons Times for ongoing coverage of global security, international relations, and the evolving war in Ukraine.