Zelensky Reveals Presence of Hundreds of Chinese Nationals Engaged in Combat for Russia in Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently brought to light a concerning development: hundreds of Chinese nationals are reportedly engaged in combat at the frontlines alongside Russian forces. This assertion raises significant questions about Russia’s strategies and its implications for international relations. “As of now, we have information that at least several hundred Chinese nationals are fighting as part of Russia’s occupation forces,” Mr. Zelensky stated during a meeting in Brussels with military leaders from allied nations. “This means Russia is clearly trying to prolong the war – even by using Chinese lives,” he added, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
This week, Ukrainian authorities captured two Chinese nationals in the eastern area of Donetsk, identified as participants in the conflict on Russia’s side. These events have led Mr. Zelensky to express serious concerns that Russia is drawing Beijing into its invasion narrative.
Addressing the ongoing conflict, Mr. Zelensky made an urgent appeal for enhanced air defense systems, speaking remotely from his hometown of Kryvyi Rig, where a recent Russian missile strike tragically claimed the lives of 19 individuals, including nine children. “You know that Ukraine has a shortage of air defense systems. You know that Patriot systems can effectively protect against ballistic threats,” he stated clearly. “I ask you to focus first of all on air defense for Ukraine. We truly need it. Ten Patriot systems — the free world has them,” he implored, highlighting Ukraine’s critical needs.
Additionally, Mr. Zelensky criticized Russia for dismissing a ceasefire proposal from the United States, which had Ukrainian approval, just one month ago. He called upon allies to advance the establishment of a security contingent designed to deter future Russian aggression once the fighting subsides. “We need to define clear details regarding the size, structure, deployment, logistics, sustainment, and the equipment and weapons of this security contingent in Ukraine,” he emphasized, outlining the need for strategic planning amidst the chaos of war.
A recent view of the devastation in Kupyansk, a reminder of the conflict’s toll.
In the meantime, Russia’s defense ministry has claimed its forces have captured the village of Zhuravka in Ukraine’s northern Sumy region, although Ukrainian officials have not confirmed this development. “Over the past seven days, the Russians have launched 47 assault operations on our defenders’ positions,” reported Volodymyr Artiukh, the governor of Sumy region, weary of the escalating military activity. “The enemy’s main efforts are focused on the area around the settlements of Zhuravka and Vasivka,” he continued, noting that despite Russian advances, Ukrainian forces have been resilient in their defense.
The governor also noted a troubling pattern of Russian attacks targeting civilian infrastructure, with recent assaults aimed at food industry facilities, such as meat-packing plants and dairies. Ukrainian forces are reportedly maintaining a strong presence in the Kursk region, providing a “worthy rebuff to the enemy and inflicting significant losses,” despite the ongoing threats.
In light of these tensions, Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested the establishment of a buffer zone along the border to protect Russian interests. Meanwhile, Mr. Zelensky acknowledged for the first time Ukraine’s military activities in Russia’s Belgorod region, an effort aimed at safeguarding Ukrainian towns and reinforcing national security.
As these developments unfold, the international community continues to watch closely, considering the broader implications for regional stability and the delicate balance of power.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international – Monitoring.
