A recent article by the influential British outlet The Economist raises the question of Chinese nationals taking part in the war in Ukraine—with individuals reportedly found on both sides of the conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has chosen a specific information strategy, publicly stating only that Chinese are fighting for Russia. Why are the Ukrainian authorities taking this approach—and is it justified?
On April 8, Volodymyr Zelensky posted a video showing two Chinese nationals captured by Ukrainian forces, stressing that China is now "directly or indirectly" involved in the war. He urged the United States to "pay attention to this fact." The next day, a new video appeared showing the detainees’ documents, and Zelensky stated that Ukraine is aware of more than 150 Chinese citizens fighting for Russia.
Chang Renbo.
Wang Guangjun.
In response, China stated that it is verifying the information but officially emphasized that it does not support its citizens' participation in military operations on either side. As noted by The Economist, although China provides Russia with economic support, supplies dual-use technologies, and echoes Kremlin narratives in its media, there is still no direct evidence of state-backed involvement of Chinese mercenaries.
The article features stories of Chinese nationals who went to war for money or the thrill of combat, inspired by Chinese patriotic films. Their real experiences turned out to be tragic: they complain about mistreatment by Russian forces, say they were used as "cannon fodder", and warn other Chinese citizens to avoid the same fate.
At the same time, The Economist also reports on Chinese volunteers fighting for Ukraine. These are typically dissidents and opposition figures who were previously persecuted in China. Their numbers are far smaller, and Ukrainian authorities deliberately avoid publicizing their involvement.
Seeking to apply diplomatic pressure on Beijing and push the West to counter growing China–Russia ties more actively, Ukraine is attempting to portray China as violating its declared neutrality—generating political pressure from the US and Europe.
However, this strategy carries serious risks. If Ukraine fails to provide convincing evidence of state involvement, its claims may be swiftly and easily denied by the Chinese side, damaging Kyiv’s credibility.
Furthermore, Ukraine’s one-sided approach could backfire. Beijing may highlight that Chinese nationals are fighting on both sides of the conflict, presenting it as proof that China does not support either party. This could undermine Ukraine’s argument and weaken its diplomatic stance. Excessive or poorly substantiated accusations could also erode the confidence of Western partners. Ukraine risks creating the impression that it is exaggerating threats to rally international support.
Finally, it could complicate future relations with China, which—despite current tensions—may still play a meaningful role in Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction or conflict resolution.
Kyiv’s information strategy is aimed at addressing urgent diplomatic challenges, but in the long run, it must take care to avoid potential traps that could weaken the country’s position and limit its room for diplomatic maneuver in the future.