Ukraine’s foreign ministry took significant diplomatic action on Tuesday by summoning China’s ambassador, Ma Shengkun, to express “serious concern” regarding allegations of Chinese fighters being involved with the Russian army and Chinese companies allegedly aiding Russia in the production of military hardware.
The Ukrainian government has stated that President Volodymyr Zelensky possesses information indicating that at least 155 Chinese nationals are fighting alongside Russian forces, with two individuals reportedly detained by Ukrainian authorities. Furthermore, Zelensky has suggested that China may be supplying arms to Russia, a claim that Beijing has categorically denied in previous statements.
During the meeting, Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Yevhen Perebyinis raised the issue and presented what he described as “evidence” supporting these allegations. The ministry articulated that the participation of Chinese citizens in military operations against Ukraine, along with the involvement of Chinese enterprises in manufacturing military products for Russia, poses a significant concern and contradicts the spirit of partnership between Ukraine and China.
The statement emphasized that the evidence collected by Ukrainian special services has been shared with the Chinese representatives, and Perebyinis called on China to take steps to halt any support for Russia’s aggression toward Ukraine. Despite these serious claims, Perebyinis reassured that Ukraine values its strategic partnership with China and hopes that Beijing will avoid actions that could jeopardize their bilateral relations.
Responding to the diplomatic summons, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun firmly rejected the allegations, labeling them as “groundless” and criticizing what he referred to as “political manipulation.” The ongoing tensions and the diplomatic exchange highlight the delicate nature of international relations amidst the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, as well as China’s role on the global stage.
