Beijing embarrassed as Ukraine parades captured Chinese soldiers, breaking international law
Kyiv: In a provocative move that has drawn international scrutiny, Ukraine has paraded two Chinese nationals captured while fighting alongside Russian forces in eastern Donetsk. The decision, reportedly approved by President Volodymyr Zelensky, was made in direct response to China’s denial that any of its citizens were involved in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
The action marks a violation of international humanitarian law, which prohibits the public display and identification of prisoners of war (PoWs). Nevertheless, Kyiv opted to make the display public, citing the need to counter Beijing’s repeated denials.
Last week, President Zelensky stated that Ukraine had identified 155 Chinese nationals actively participating in combat on its territory. He accused Moscow of recruiting Chinese citizens and providing them with military training. The Ukrainian leader also alleged that two of these individuals were captured in eastern Donetsk, claims China had dismissed as baseless.
In response, China’s foreign ministry reiterated, “China is not the initiator of the Ukrainian crisis, nor is China a participating party.” It urged all parties to “correctly and soberly understand the role of China” and refrain from making “irresponsible remarks.”
The captured Chinese PoWs were presented before the press in full combat fatigues. Speaking through a translator, the men recounted their experiences and motivations. According to CNN, which attended the media briefing, one of the PoWs said he joined the war for financial reasons, lured by a Russian offer of 250,000 rubles (approximately $3,000) per month—more than twice what he earned in China.
The individual, who previously worked in medical rehabilitation, claimed he was reassigned to combat duties after undergoing military training in Moscow. Language barriers and lack of documentation in Mandarin complicated their experience, they said.
Ukraine also released copies of the prisoners’ passports and military documents to further verify their identities.
Ukrainian intelligence reportedly showed CNN a signed contract from another Chinese volunteer, not present at the press briefing, indicating formal enlistment in the Russian military. The contract included commitments to combat participation and support during martial law, emergencies, and anti-terrorism activities.
These revelations raise questions about the extent of Beijing’s knowledge or involvement. When asked, President Zelensky said, “I don't have an answer to this question yet. The Security Service of Ukraine will work on it.” However, he noted that Kyiv has “reason to believe that Beijing is aware of what is happening.”
Observers say the unusual move was aimed not only at shaming China but also at drawing attention from the United States. With the Trump administration focusing on economic rivalry with Beijing and U.S. aid to Ukraine declining, Kyiv may be seeking to rekindle Western interest by highlighting China’s indirect involvement in the war.
While Beijing maintains a neutral stance, it has continued to offer economic and diplomatic support to Moscow. The exposure of Chinese fighters in Ukraine has intensified scrutiny of its true position in the conflict.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) strongly discourages the exposure of PoWs to the media, viewing it as a serious violation of humanitarian norms. Legal experts warn that Ukraine’s actions may compromise its moral standing in the international arena.
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KSRTC to run 1000 special services to clear Christmas rush
Bengaluru: The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation will operate 1000 additional special services in view of the Christmas festival.
In addition to the existing schedule, the special services will run on 19.12.2025, 20.12.2025 and 24.12.2025. Further, special buses will be operated from various places of intra & Interstate places to Bengaluru on 26.12.2025 & 28.12.2025.
Special buses will be exclusively operated from Bengaluru Kempegowda Bus Station to Dharmastala, Kukkesubramanya, Shivamogga, Hassan, Mangaluru, Kundapura, Shringeri, Horanadu, Davangere, Hubbali, Dharwad, Belagavi, Vijayapura, Gokarna, Sirsi, Karwar, Raichur, Kalaburagi, Ballari, Koppala, Yadgir, Bidar, Tirupathi, Vijayawada, Hyderabad and other places.
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Special buses from Mysuru Road Bus Station will be exclusively operated towards Mysuru, Hunsur, Piriyapatna, Virajpet, Kushalanagar, Madikeri.
The corporation has also announced a discount of 5 per cent on the fare if four or more passengers book tickets under a single reservation. A discount of 10 per cent will be extended on return journey tickets if onward and return tickets are booked simultaneously.
In addition to the above, special buses will be operated from all Taluk/District Bus Stands in the jurisdiction of KSRTC based on the traffic needs.
