Two Chinese citizens, Wang Guangjun and Zhang Renbo, were captured by Ukrainian forces in April 2025 while fighting for Russia. Their capture was publicized by Ukrainian President Zelensky, who also claimed to have information on 155 other Chinese citizens fighting in the war.
Their capture locations suggest they were part of a large-scale Russian offensive.
Wang and Zhang described their experiences, including intense fighting, drone attacks, and poor treatment from Russian soldiers. They expressed regret for joining the war and emphasized the lies they were told about the conflict.
Ukraine released a list of 155 Chinese citizens fighting for Russia, including details about their age, recruitment, and military units. Analysis of this list suggests patterns and highlights the risk faced by Chinese nationals involved.
Ukraine used the capture of the Chinese mercenaries to pressure China and increase Western involvement. China's response was cautious, urging its citizens to avoid the conflict.
The legal status of the Chinese soldiers as mercenaries is unclear, and their future remains uncertain. Some Chinese mercenaries have returned to China without facing serious punishment.