Overview

• Chinese prisoners Zhang Renbo and Wang Guangjun revealed they were recruited through misleading online ads promising non-combat roles and high salaries.
• Both men described harsh conditions under Russian command, including constant surveillance and restricted movement, making escape impossible.
• The captives stated that Russia's claims of military strength were false, calling the information they were given lies and warning others not to join the war.
• Ukraine estimates over 150 Chinese nationals may be fighting for Russia, though Beijing denies any official involvement and is reviewing the captured soldiers' conduct.
• The Chinese government reiterated its advisories against citizen involvement in conflict zones and is verifying the circumstances of the captives' recruitment and actions.