**Chinese National Captured in Ukraine Reveals Details of Joining Russian Military**
A Chinese national, captured by Ukrainian forces near the villages of Tarasivka and Bilohorivka, has spoken out about his decision to join the Russian military. The man, who paid 300,000 rubles (approximately $3,500) to a middleman in China, was among two Chinese nationals taken prisoner during a clash between Ukrainian troops and a Russian assault group on April 8.
According to the captured individual, he received training in the occupied part of Luhansk Oblast alongside other Chinese nationals. He learned basic skills without an interpreter, relying instead on hand gestures and a mobile translator. The man’s main goal was to become a military officer and gain Russian citizenship.
The Ukrainian military confirmed the man’s identity and citizenship, and the prisoner is cooperating with Ukrainian investigators. This incident has sparked concerns about foreign involvement in the conflict and raised questions about China’s role in supporting Russia’s military efforts.
**China’s Response**
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, stated that Chinese citizens are prohibited from participating in foreign armed conflicts. However, Ukraine summoned China’s chargé d’affaires to demand an official explanation and express condemnation. Zelensky has also instructed Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha to contact Beijing.
**Escalating Conflict**
This incident marks a potential escalation in foreign involvement, as unlike North Korean troops who have fought on Russian soil, the Chinese nationals were captured on Ukrainian territory. The presence of Chinese nationals in the ranks of the Russian military further proves that Moscow is not seeking peace and continues to draw support from countries like China, Iran, and North Korea.
**Ukraine’s Response**
The U.S. State Department has called the incident “disturbing,” adding that it is closely monitoring the situation. Ukraine has also noted a decline in Chinese lobbying expenditures in the U.S., which dropped sixfold compared to 2023. The negotiations will involve representatives of the two countries’ foreign ministries, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said.
**Increased Russian Activity**
Combat data analyzed by CNN confirms a surge in Russian activity across the front line over the past two weeks. Russia has increased its force in Ukraine “fivefold since the beginning of the aggression,” Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said, putting the number of Russian troops currently deployed in the country at 623,000.
**European Support**
Ukraine’s Deputy Defense Minister Valerii Churkin emphasized that Ukraine is grateful for international support. The European Commission aims to halt imports from Russia and Belarus—totaling 3.6 million tonnes valued at $1.41 billion (1.28 billion euros) in 2023—to limit revenue flowing to Moscow’s war effort.
This article highlights the complexities of foreign involvement in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. It raises questions about China’s role in supporting Russia’s military efforts and underscores the need for continued international support for Ukraine.
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**Sources:**
– Kyiv Independent
– CNN
