Two Chinese Citizens Captured While Fighting for Russian Forces in Donetsk Region, Says Zelenskyy

Ukrainian forces have captured two Chinese nationals who were fighting alongside Russian troops in the Donetsk region, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on April 8.

According to Zelenskyy on April 8, Ukrainian authorities have secured the detainees’ personal documents, bank cards, and other identifying materials. Both individuals are currently in the custody of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), where investigative and operational actions are ongoing.

“There is information suggesting that the number of Chinese citizens in Russian units may be higher,” Zelenskyy stated in his official Telegram channel. “Intelligence, the SBU, and the Armed Forces are working to verify the facts.”

Zelenskyy emphasized that the presence of foreign military personnel fighting for Russia fundamentally alters the dynamics of the war. He noted that Ukraine cannot fight multiple countries simultaneously and expects this matter to be addressed urgently by international partners.

He has directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Defense to contact their Chinese counterparts for official clarification. “We expect the United States to engage with Kyiv directly on this matter, rather than prioritizing discussions with Moscow,” Zelenskyy added.

The press conference took place during the official visit of Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever to Ukraine on April 8. De Wever was accompanied by Belgian Foreign Minister Maxim Prevot and Defense Minister Theo Francken, according to a statement from Prevot on X (formerly Twitter).

The two captured Chinese nationals are currently in the custody of the Security Service of Ukraine. Authorities have recovered their personal documents, bank cards, and other identifying materials. Ukrainian intelligence and military services are continuing to investigate the scope of foreign involvement in Russian military operations.

Earlier in January, Ukrainian forces captured two North Korean soldiers in Russia’s Kursk region. According to President Zelenskyy, the detainees, now held by the SBU in Kyiv, were wounded but survived and are cooperating with investigators.

Preliminary findings suggest they underwent joint training with Russian troops in 2024, though one claimed he believed he was only participating in exercises, not active combat.

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