China Rebukes Ukraine;s Zelensky Over Claims of Chinese Nationals Fighting for Russia

China has issued a strong response to Ukrainian leader Zelensky’s allegations that Chinese citizens are fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, Al Jazeera reports.

A Foreign Ministry spokesperson urged “relevant parties” to avoid making “irresponsible remarks,” in what appeared to be a direct rebuke to Zelensky.

“We advise the relevant parties to recognize China’s role correctly and clear-headedly,” stated spokesperson Lin Jian.

The statement comes after Zelensky claimed on Wednesday that Kyiv possesses evidence indicating at least 155 Chinese nationals are supporting Moscow’s war effort.

Zelensky characterized the alleged participation of Chinese citizens in the conflict as “a deliberate step towards expanding the war.”

In response, Lin reiterated that Beijing consistently instructs its nationals to avoid involvement in foreign conflicts, “and especially refrain from participating in any party’s military operations.”

Echoing China’s position, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov also refuted Zelensky’s claims, stating the Ukrainian leader was “wrong” to suggest Russia was drawing China into the conflict.

“Partner, friend, and comrade. China has always taken a very balanced position, so Zelensky is wrong,” Peskov told reporters.

China maintains that it is a neutral party in the Ukraine war and asserts that it does not provide lethal aid to either side, a stance that contrasts with the actions of the United States and other Western nations.