Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the capture of two Chinese nationals fighting for Russia in the Donetsk region, raising concerns about China’s role in the ongoing war. Zelensky claimed Ukrainian forces encountered six Chinese fighters during a recent clash, capturing two, and hinted that many more may be serving in Russian units.

The captured individuals were found with identification documents and bank cards containing personal data. In a video shared online, one detainee is seen speaking Mandarin and describing the battle.

This is Ukraine’s first official claim that China may be providing manpower to Russia. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha condemned the involvement, summoning China’s envoy in Kyiv and stating that it contradicts China’s proclaimed neutrality and undermines its credibility as a UN Security Council member.

The US State Department also expressed concern, describing China as a key enabler of Russia’s war effort through the supply of dual-use technologies. While China and Russia share close ties, Beijing has repeatedly denied providing direct military aid.

President Zelensky called for global attention, especially from the US and Europe, highlighting this development as further evidence of Russia broadening its international support to prolong the conflict. The captured individuals are currently under investigation by Ukrainian authorities.