US State Department Spokesperson Calls China “Major Enabler” of Russia’s War in Ukraine: “It’s Disturbing”

The US Department of State held a press briefing led by spokesperson Tammy Bruce on April 8, who addressed the recent reports of foreign nationals, particularly Chinese citizens, joining Russian forces in Ukraine.

Bruce stated, “It’s disturbing, it’s disturbing with North Korea participating, it is disturbing with the Chinese soldiers having been captured,” adding, “China is a major enabler of Russia. In the war in Ukraine, China provides nearly 80% of the dual-use items Russia needs to sustain the war. 80% comes from China.”

The spokesperson described US President Donald Trump’s thoughts on the ongoing collaboration between Russia and China, stating that it will only heighten global instability, making the United States and other nations less safe, secure, and prosperous. Tammy Bruce added, “I believe this is an understatement.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that two Chinese soldiers had been captured during an engagement with Ukrainian forces in Donetsk region on April 8.

Ukrainian officials have condemned China’s involvement and summoned the Chinese chargé d’affaires in Kyiv to demand an explanation.

Tammy Bruce added, when questioned about the recent Russian missile strike on Kryvyi Rih, “As we know, President Trump has been committed to finding and demanding the return of the missing or stolen Ukrainian children from Russia. So this is the top of the mind for President Trump and for Secretary Rubio.“

In related news, North Korea has advanced its nuclear weapons program, unveiling what appears to be its first nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) in early March 2025.