Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused China of supplying artillery and gunpowder to Russia, citing intelligence gathered by Ukraine's Security Service (SBU). He also claims that Chinese representatives are involved in weapons production within Russia. This follows a previous accusation of 155 Chinese citizens fighting alongside Russian forces.
China denies involvement, stating that Ukraine should acknowledge its constructive role in seeking a political solution. Reports have already surfaced earlier about 155 Chinese nationals fighting with the Russian army, with two captured in Donetsk and Lugansk regions. US intelligence sources have described these fighters as mercenaries, unaffiliated with Beijing.
Zelenskyy's accusations significantly strain relations between Kyiv and Beijing. While China initially denied providing weapons to Russia and had emphasized neutrality, these accusations raise concerns about China's increasing military involvement supporting Russia. The confirmed supply of arms to Russia, even if indirect, would deepen China's commitment to its alliance with Russia and potentially further complicate global efforts towards peace in Ukraine.