Beijing Rejects "Irresponsible Remarks" on Chinese Nationals in Ukraine

Beijing has issued a strong warning against "irresponsible remarks" concerning the alleged deployment of Chinese nationals in the Ukraine conflict. The statement comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that Kyiv possesses information indicating 155 Chinese citizens are fighting alongside Russian forces.

Zelensky's initial statement followed reports of the Ukrainian army capturing two Chinese soldiers in eastern Ukraine, further fueling the controversy.

In response to Zelensky's claims, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian urged "relevant parties" to avoid making unsubstantiated statements. While refraining from directly mentioning Ukraine or Zelensky, Lin emphasized the need to "recognize China's role correctly and clear-headedly."

China maintains its position as a neutral party in the conflict. However, Western governments have criticized Beijing's close ties with Moscow, alleging that it provides Russia with crucial economic and diplomatic support.

Zelensky accused Russia of pulling China into the war. But Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed these accusations. Peskov affirmed China's balanced approach to the situation, referring to the country as a "partner, friend, and comrade."

Lin reiterated that Beijing "has always required that its nationals … avoid involving themselves in armed conflicts in any form." He further stated that China is neither a creator nor a party to the Ukraine crisis, emphasizing the country's commitment to a peaceful resolution.

The situation remains sensitive. All eyes are on how these countries navigate their relationships amidst the ongoing conflict.