Beijing denies Zelensky’s claims of Chinese soldiers fighting for Russia

China has rejected Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s recent claims that Chinese nationals are fighting for Russian forces in Ukraine.

Zelensky shared a video on Tuesday featuring an individual he said was a Chinese citizen captured during the conflict, alleging that more such individuals are serving with Russian troops.

On Wednesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian dismissed these accusations, calling them “groundless” and reiterating that China advises its citizens not to engage in foreign conflicts. Lin reaffirmed China’s neutral stance on the war, emphasizing that it has been widely recognized internationally.

Zelensky further suggested that Russia is drawing China into the war, either directly or indirectly, urging the US and EU to respond. 

China, however, has consistently denied that its trade with Russia supports the Russian military and has maintained its neutral position.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin last month agreed to President Trump’s proposal for a 30-day pause on energy strikes. Moscow claims Ukraine has violated the ceasefire, accusing Zelensky of being untrustworthy.