Zelensky Claims China Aware of Russian Recruitment of Citizens

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reported that at least 155 Chinese citizens are fighting for Russia in Ukraine, claiming that the Chinese government is aware of this recruitment. Zelensky noted that these individuals are being recruited through social media platforms, particularly TikTok, and that the total number may be higher than currently known. He confirmed the capture of two Chinese nationals in Donetsk and shared that they had undergone military training after arriving in Russia. The Ukrainian Security Service is gathering information about these individuals, and Kyiv has summoned China's chargé d'affaires to discuss the situation. Despite Zelensky's claims, the Chinese foreign ministry has dismissed them as unfounded and has urged its citizens to avoid conflict zones. The situation raises significant diplomatic concerns as Ukraine seeks to address the involvement of foreign fighters in the ongoing conflict.