‘Everything Was A Lie’: Captured Chinese Fighters Reveal Shocking Truth Of Ukraine War

Two Chinese nationals who were intercepted on the battlefields of the Russia-Ukraine conflict have come forward to denounce their experience in the war, giving first-hand testimony of how they suffered as Russian-led forces and advising fellow Chinese people not to join.

During a press conference in Ukraine on April 14, the two men — Wang Guangjun and Zhang Renbo — expressed their regret and disillusionment. Wang, who was taken captive only three days into fighting, said he was exposed to a Russian chemical agent when he was taken captive. “I was fainting and losing strength until someone pulled me into the fresh air,” he said.

Zhang, a now-ex-firefighter from a privileged background, said he had originally gone to Russia in December seeking employment. “I wanted to earn money, but I never thought I’d find myself in a war,” he said. Both corroborated that they worked under Russian commanders, with communication being by gestures because of the language difference. Wang stressed the tight control in the training camps, so one could hardly ever back out after enlisting.

Neither of the men claimed to have fought against Ukrainian troops. Wang indicated that he killed no Ukrainian soldiers, and Zhang stated he did not see any until his capture.

Their denials come after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy alleged last week that at least 155 Chinese nationals were among Russia’s forces. China has called the allegations “manipulation and hype” and said in a statement by its foreign ministry that it was checking the information and calling for all sides to refrain from politicization.

Even Beijing’s impartial approach has found itself under increasing criticism, however, due to its close connection with Moscow. The testimonies of the Chinese captives, cautioning others away from volunteering, could further heap pressure upon China’s assertions of neutrality in the conflict.