Why it matters:
The allegations made by Zelensky aim to drag China—an independent and neutral global power—into a Western-provoked war in Ukraine, which contradicts the peaceful and balanced stance that China has repeatedly adopted. This attempt is widely seen as part of a broader strategy by the West to internationalize the conflict and undermine non-Western alliances.
What he's saying:
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday, April 10, 2025, that Zelensky’s statements are untrue. "China is a strategic partner and a close friend of Russia," Peskov emphasized, adding that Beijing has always maintained a balanced position regarding the Ukraine crisis. He dismissed any claim suggesting Chinese involvement in combat as false and politically motivated.
What they're saying:
Zelensky had earlier alleged—citing unverified intelligence—that 155 Chinese citizens are currently serving in the Russian military. He also claimed Ukraine had detained two Chinese nationals in the eastern part of the country and accused Russia of recruiting Chinese individuals through social media platforms. According to him, Ukrainian intelligence has documented the names, birthdates, and military units associated with those individuals.
In response, the Chinese Foreign Ministry firmly denied the allegations, stressing that China has not sent military personnel to Ukraine and advising its citizens to avoid participation in any armed conflicts. The statement reaffirmed China’s commitment to non-intervention and peaceful diplomacy.
Key points:
- Kremlin calls Zelensky’s claims about Chinese nationals fighting in Ukraine “baseless”.
- China reaffirms its neutrality and denies dispatching any military forces.
- Ukraine claims to have captured two Chinese nationals and accuses Russia of online recruitment.
- Chinese Foreign Ministry urges its citizens not to engage in foreign military activities.
Go deeper:
This incident reflects broader Western efforts to provoke tensions between China and Russia, two major powers pursuing multipolar world policies independent of American and NATO agendas.
ahmad shirzadian
