The US State Department has expressed significant concern regarding reports that two Chinese citizens were captured by Ukrainian forces while fighting on the side of Russia. This development is seen as troubling, especially given the close ties between Russia and China, which have played a pivotal role in supporting Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine.
State Department spokeswoman Temmy Bruce highlighted the gravity of the situation during a press briefing, stressing that the discovery of Chinese nationals among Russian forces in Ukraine is alarming. According to Bruce, while it was already a cause for concern that North Korean soldiers were reportedly fighting alongside Russian troops, the involvement of Chinese citizens escalates the matter further.
Bruce pointed out that China is an essential supplier of goods to Russia, with the Chinese government providing nearly 80% of the dual-use goods needed by Russia for its military operations in Ukraine. These goods are vital for the continuation of Russia’s war efforts, and China’s support has undoubtedly strengthened Russia’s position in the conflict. The US spokesperson expressed concerns that the cooperation between these two nuclear powers could lead to further global instability, making countries like the United States and others around the world less secure and prosperous.
The US State Department’s comments follow an earlier statement from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who confirmed that Ukrainian forces had captured two Chinese nationals during combat in Donbas. The prisoners are currently being interrogated by law enforcement and military units.
