**Ukraine Accuses China of Supplying Russia with Manpower in War**
In a shocking revelation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that his country’s forces have captured two Chinese nationals who were fighting for the Russian army in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region. This is the first official allegation from Ukraine that China is supplying Russia with manpower.
According to Zelensky, intelligence suggests that the number of Chinese soldiers in Russia’s army is “much higher than two”. The Ukrainian president also accused Russia of using “meat grinder” tactics, throwing huge numbers of soldiers at the front lines to incrementally improve their position.
The captured Chinese nationals were identified with identification documents, including bank cards with personal data on them. Zelensky shared a video on social media platform X showing one of the alleged Chinese captives in handcuffs, speaking Mandarin Chinese and describing a recent battle.
This development has sparked a diplomatic row between Ukraine and China. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha summoned China’s chargé d’affaires in Kyiv to demand an explanation and condemn Russia’s involvement of Chinese citizens in its war of aggression against Ukraine.
**China Denies Allegations, Says Citizens Were Not Officially Involved**
In response to the allegations, China’s foreign ministry said it was “verifying the relevant situation with the Ukrainian side”. However, it denied that Chinese troops were fighting on Ukrainian territory, stating that any involvement by Chinese citizens in the conflict was unofficial and not sanctioned by the government.
China’s foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian emphasized that the Chinese government has consistently urged its citizens to stay away from conflict zones and avoid involvement in armed conflicts. He added that if Chinese citizens had been captured by Ukrainian forces, they were likely operating in a private capacity.
**US and West Condemn China’s Alleged Role**
The US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce called the reports “disturbing” and stated that China is a “major enabler” of Russia’s war in Ukraine. The US has previously accused China of supplying dual-use goods, such as navigation equipment and semiconductor chips, to support Russia’s military efforts.
This development comes as North Korea has sent thousands of troops to aid Russia’s war effort against Ukraine. Zelensky pointed out that there is a difference between the two countries’ involvement, with Chinese citizens fighting on Ukrainian territory and North Koreans fighting in Russia.
**Implications of China’s Alleged Involvement**
The alleged involvement of Chinese nationals in Russia’s army has significant implications for the global community. It raises questions about China’s declared stance for peace and undermines its credibility as a member of the UN Security Council.
As the war between Ukraine and Russia continues, this development adds another layer of complexity to the conflict. The international community is watching closely as diplomatic efforts are underway to resolve the situation.
**Investigation Underway**
An investigation into the alleged involvement of Chinese nationals in Russia’s army is currently under way, with the captives in custody of Ukraine’s security service. The outcome of this investigation will have significant implications for the global community and may shape the future course of international relations.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
