Ukrainian diplomacy has expressed deep concern about the participation of citizens of the People's Republic in the war on the side of the Russian Federation. On Tuesday, April 8, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine summoned a temporary attorney for the China's affairs for the official explanation of Beijing's position. About it reported V.O. Foreign Minister Andriy Sibiga.
According to the official, the facts of the presence of Chinese citizens among prisoners who participated in hostilities against Ukraine are of serious concern. Such participation, said Sibiga, is contrary to the official statements of the Chinese side about the neutral position and support of peaceful settlement of the conflict.
"We have summoned a temporary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine to protest and demand explanations. Ukraine strongly condemns the participation of foreign citizens, including the Chinese, in hostilities on the side of the aggressor state," the diplomat said.
The Ukrainian side stressed that such facts are questioned by the sincerity of the PRC in the intention of being a mediator in establishing peace. They can also adversely affect China's image as a permanent UN Security Council member, which is of particular responsibility for maintaining international peace and security.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs is currently expending the Chinese government's official reaction and clarification on the mechanisms that may be in the territory of Ukraine in the territory of Ukraine. It is, in particular, about the possible participation of mercenaries or employees of private military companies who cooperate with the Russian army.
Analysts say that China has declared a neutrality for war in Ukraine for a long time, while maintaining a strategic partnership with Russia. However, the emergence of China's citizens among the participants in the fighting on the side of the Russian troops can provoke a diplomatic crisis between Beijing and Kiev, as well as to increase international pressure on the Chinese leadership.
This incident can also affect the perception of China as a potential peacekeeper by the Western countries, especially against the background of increasing geopolitical tension in the region and exacerbation of US and China relations. The Ukrainian side has already called on the international community to carefully monitor such cases and to contribute to the prosecution of persons involved in illegal participation in armed conflicts.
