The Kremlin has dismissed recent remarks by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who alleged that China was being drawn into the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov refuted the claims, emphasizing that Beijing maintains a “balanced position” and is not being dragged into the war.
Zelensky had stated that Ukrainian intelligence identified at least 155 Chinese citizens fighting on the side of Russia in Ukraine. He further alleged that Russia was recruiting Chinese nationals through social media platforms, with Chinese officials reportedly aware of the situation.
In response, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian rejected the accusations, reiterating Beijing’s stance as a “firm supporter and active promoter of a peaceful settlement of the crisis.” Lin emphasized that China consistently discourages its citizens from participating in foreign conflicts.
Peskov echoed these sentiments, describing China as a “strategic partner, friend, and comrade” of Russia. He firmly denied Zelensky’s claims, stating, “This is not the case. Zelensky is wrong.”
The allegations come against the backdrop of a “no-limits” strategic partnership declared between Russia and China in February 2022, just days before Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
As tensions continue to escalate, the diplomatic exchange highlights the complexities of the geopolitical landscape surrounding the Ukraine conflict.
