Ukrainian military captures two Chinese citizens fighting for Russia in Donetsk Oblast
Two Chinese citizens who fought as part of the Russian army in Donetsk Oblast were captured by Ukrainian forces, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported on X.
According to him, they were captured during a battle between Ukrainian soldiers in the Tarasivka and Bilohorivka area with six Chinese citizens.
Two prisoners are already in the custody of the Security Service of Ukraine. Investigative and operational actions are ongoing. Ukraine also has their documents, bank cards, and personal data.
"We have information suggesting that there are many more Chinese citizens in the occupier's units than just these two. We are currently verifying all the facts—intelligence, the Security Service of Ukraine, and the relevant units of the Armed Forces are working on it," Zelenskyy said.
The president instructed Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha to immediately contact Beijing and find out how China intends to respond.
According to the Ukrainian head of state, Russia's direct or indirect involvement of China in this war is "a clear signal that Putin intends to do anything but end the war."
"He is looking for ways to continue fighting. This definitely requires a response. A response from the United States, Europe, and all those around the world who want peace," Zelenskyy emphasized.
This is not the first time that foreigners have been captured by the Ukrainian military. On January 11, Ukrainian fighters captured the first two North Korean soldiers in Kursk Oblast of Russia. They were wounded, but survived. They were taken to Kyiv.
At the same time, the president pointed out the difference between the North Koreans who fought on the territory of the Russian Federation and the Chinese who are participating in hostilities directly in Ukraine. He believes that this is an "important point" that needs to be discussed with partners.