Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on Thursday that he had “information” indicating that China was providing arms to Russia, amid heightened tensions between Kyiv and Beijing regarding China’s backing of Moscow.
Zelensky revealed last Wednesday that Ukrainian authorities were aware of at least 155 Chinese nationals who had been deployed to support Russia’s invasion, following claims that two Chinese soldiers had been captured by Ukrainian forces in the eastern Donetsk region.
“We have finally obtained information confirming that China is supplying weapons to the Russian Federation,” Zelensky informed reporters during a press conference in Kyiv.
He added, “We believe that Chinese representatives are involved in the manufacturing of certain weaponry on Russian soil.”
Zelensky did not go into detail regarding his allegations, simply stating that Kyiv was “prepared” to discuss them thoroughly.
China has presented itself as a neutral entity amid the ongoing three-year conflict, despite criticism from Western nations that its close relationship with Russia has provided Moscow with significant economic and diplomatic backing.
In response to Ukraine’s accusations last week, Beijing urged all parties involved in the conflict to avoid making “irresponsible remarks.”