Tensions flared Tuesday as China pushed back against what it called “political manipulation and hype”; following Ukraine’s public display of captured Chinese nationals allegedly fighting alongside Russian forces.
The response came after Ukraine held a press conference on Monday, where two Chinese prisoners of war, shown under armed guard, appealed to be exchanged and urged others from China not to join the conflict.
“China is verifying the relevant information and circumstances,”; said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian during a press briefing in Beijing.
“We urge relevant parties to accurately understand China’s objective and impartial stance, and to refrain from political manipulation and hype.”;
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy added fuel to the controversy Friday, claiming that “several hundred Chinese nationals”; were fighting alongside Russian troops on the front lines, a statement that raised eyebrows internationally and intensified scrutiny on Beijing’s role in the war.
In response, Lin reiterated China’s official position of neutrality. “China has repeatedly issued safety advisories, urging Chinese citizens to stay away from areas of armed conflict and to avoid becoming involved in conflict in any form,”; he said.
China has maintained that it provides no lethal assistance to either side, distinguishing itself from Western countries, including the United States, which have supplied arms to Ukraine.
Still, Beijing’s close ties with Moscow continue to raise concerns in Western capitals.
“With regard to individual actions and consular cases involving Chinese citizens overseas, China handles them in accordance with the law,”; Lin added.
