Fight for Ukraine: Chinese fighters in Russia's services?

Fight for Ukraine: Chinese fighters in Russia's services?

Luhansk, Ukraine - Ukrainian President Wolodymyr Selenskyj released shattering news on April 10, 2025: 155 Chinese citizens are fighting on Russia in the Ukraine conflict. According to the authorities, this is information from the Ukrainian secret service that has collected data about the recruitment of Chinese via internet platforms. Selenskyj referred to these latest developments as an escalation of the long -lasting conflict, which has been raging since February 24, 2022.

In Kiev, two recently captured Chinese were interviewed, whose release is sought in exchange for Ukrainian prisoners of war. During her captivity, there were also indications that a Chinese fighter supposedly paid for more than 3100 euros for his service in the Russian army. This soldier joined Russia as a tourist and came in Ukrainian captivity during an argument in the Luhansk region.

China's reaction and official position

The Chinese government vehemently repaid the allegations that its citizens would actively participate in the conflict. Official statements from Beijing also warn against a further escalation of the war and ask the Chinese citizens to stay away from conflict areas. The situation is tense and, in view of the geopolitical developments, could also be considered under the light of the trade war between the USA and China, with US President Donald Trump identifies China as the greatest threat, but lets Russia be given a softer course.

The historically grown relationship between Russia and China has changed over the years. During the first phases of the Ukraine War, China was a decisive supporter in Russia, which was underpinned by the joint explanations and encounters of XI Jinping and Vladimir Putin. Nevertheless, China's rhetoric has changed since the end of March 2022, since the country is now trying to bring neutrality into play, for fear of possible sanctions with direct support for Russia with arms deliveries.

Russia, China and the Ukraine conflict

Selenskyj emphasized that Ukraine was ready to pay for additional military aid from the USA, especially for modern aircraft systems such as the Patriot system. The Ukrainian security service has already created lists with names, dates of birth and associated Russian military units of the prisoners of Chinese fighters. The desperate situation on the front lines of the war illustrates the potential of dismissals offered by the Russian army for recruiting new soldiers.

observations indicate that China is closely pursuing Russia's military losses in Ukraine. China's strategic considerations could have far -reaching consequences; An extended pro-Russian attitude could further increase geopolitical tensions. Chinese media reporting is also one -sided, with censored critical opinions and the use of the term "Ukraine crisis" to present the conflict.

The relationship between China and Russia is on the brink, with both countries showing opportunistic trains. China, which traditionally rely on economic cooperation with Ukraine, must now carefully navigate so as not to be involved in international tensions. While Russia is the third largest oil and gas supplier, weak Russia could increase the opportunity for China to gain more influence in the region.