A Chinese fighter who joined Russia’s war in Ukraine has come forward to warn others against enlisting, describing brutal combat conditions, poor equipment, mistreatment, and corruption within the Russian military. Known only as Michael, he spent a year on the frontlines after joining the Wagner mercenary group and later signing a contract with Russia’s Ministry of Defense. Motivated initially by a desire for military experience rather than politics, he now calls his decision a grave mistake.
Michael detailed harsh punishments, inadequate protective gear, and low morale among Chinese fighters, many of whom were drawn by financial incentives amid China’s slowing economy. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that over 150 Chinese nationals are fighting for Russia, with two captured by Ukrainian forces. He accused Russia of systematically recruiting Chinese fighters through social media ads promising pay and appealing to masculinity.
China denies any official involvement, urging its citizens to avoid conflict zones and dismissing accusations as politically motivated. Some Chinese fighters have echoed Russian propaganda on Chinese social media, framing the war as a fight against “Nazi fascism,” though recent censorship has limited such posts. A small number of Chinese nationals also fight for Ukraine, often motivated by ideology and having lived abroad.
This complex dynamic exposes the murky role of Chinese nationals in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, complicating international relations and raising questions about recruitment practices and China’s indirect involvement in the war.