Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Tuesday that Chinese citizens were working at a drone production site in Russia. He also suggested that Moscow may have “stolen” drone technology from China without Beijing’s official knowledge or approval.
Zelensky made these remarks during a press conference in Kyiv. The statement came just a few days after he accused China of providing weapons and gunpowder to Russia. This marked the first time he publicly accused Beijing of directly supporting Moscow’s war efforts. China has denied the claims and said it does not supply weapons to any side involved in the conflict.
Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry responded by summoning the Chinese Ambassador, Ma Shengkun. During the meeting, Ukraine expressed “serious concerns” about the alleged role of Chinese citizens and companies in supporting Russia’s military operations.
By saying that Russia may have obtained drone technology without Beijing knowing, Zelensky appeared to take a softer tone. China has often said it remains neutral in the Russia-Ukraine war. However, the accusations against China have increased in recent days, coming at a time when U.S.-led efforts to push for peace are gaining momentum.
Earlier this month, Zelensky also claimed that Russia had been recruiting Chinese nationals through social media to join its armed forces. He said Ukrainian officials were trying to determine whether those recruits had received instructions or support from Chinese authorities.
China has continued to say it supports peace efforts in Ukraine. In response to Zelensky’s latest comments, China’s foreign ministry warned against “irresponsible remarks” — a clear response to Ukraine’s accusations.
Zelenskyy said he had ordered Ukrainian officials to share their findings with Chinese authorities through official diplomatic channels. “I have asked the Security Service of Ukraine to send detailed information to the Chinese government about the Chinese citizens working at the drone factory,” he added.
He suggested that these citizens may have acted independently or outside of any agreement with Beijing. “Russia may have either stolen the technology or made side deals with these individuals,” Zelensky said.
Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry also said it was deeply concerned about reports of Chinese citizens taking part in Russia’s war and Chinese firms producing military goods in Russia. Deputy Foreign Minister Yevhen Perebyinis urged China to stop supporting Russian aggression. Beijing has denied these claims many times.
China’s foreign ministry repeated its position, saying it rejects “groundless accusations and political manipulation.” Russia has not yet responded to Ukraine’s latest statements.