I wanted to do something meaningful: the Chinese nationals fighting for Ukraine
a day ago
- #Chinese Volunteers
- #Geopolitics
- #Ukraine War
- Russian missile strikes killed at least 43 people in Ukraine on 8 July 2024, including an attack on Okhmatdyt children’s hospital in Kyiv.
- Tim, a Chinese national, was moved by the devastation to enlist in the Ukrainian army, joining a small number of Chinese volunteers defying their government.
- Tim and other Chinese volunteers are motivated by sympathy for Ukraine and dissatisfaction with China's political and economic situation.
- Foreigners can serve in the Ukrainian army, with estimates of up to 8,000 in the land forces, though few are from mainland China.
- Chinese public opinion on Russia is complex, with state media promoting pro-Russia views, but some sympathize with Ukraine.
- Fan, another Chinese volunteer, left China due to economic struggles and a desire for a more meaningful life, joining Ukraine's forces as a drone operator.
- Chinese social media promotes mercenary opportunities for Russia, but information on fighting for Ukraine is scarce.
- Both Tim and Fan express disillusionment with China's political environment and seek better futures for their families in Ukraine or Europe.