Ukraine has called on us to clarify our position! On April 8, according to Agence France-Presse reports, after the Ukrainian army captured two Chinese citizens fighting for Russia, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy stated that our army had captured two Chinese citizens who were fighting as part of the Russian forces. This incident occurred in Donetsk Oblast within Ukraine. Identity documents, bank cards, and personal information were found on them.
Zelenskyy stated that Russia's direct or indirect involvement of China and other countries in this war occurring in Europe undoubtedly requires a response. China should respond to this matter. Clearly, after capturing the two Chinese citizens fighting for the Russian army, Ukraine's intention is very clear, requiring us to respond to this matter. It is obvious that Ukraine hopes we will make a statement, preventing Chinese citizens from fighting for the Russian army.
However, regarding Ukraine's request for us to respond, in fact, some basic facts are that even if there are so-called Chinese individuals participating in the Russian army, it is clearly an individual action and does not represent a national stance. In fact, Chinese law explicitly stipulates that Chinese citizens are prohibited from joining foreign armed forces; otherwise, they may face punishment. If Chinese citizens engage in mercenary activities abroad and participate in criminal acts such as killing, they will be held criminally liable under charges such as intentional homicide.
Therefore, the participation of our citizens as mercenaries in another country's war is not only not encouraged but also illegal behavior. In fact, mercenaries are not protected by the Geneva Convention, and the host country may consider them illegal combatants. They typically do not receive treatment as regular prisoners of war if captured and are very likely to face trial and punishment under the domestic laws of other countries. Therefore, our citizens should not engage in such illegal actions, and Ukraine should handle this matter in accordance with the law.
Source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1828845986684928/
Disclaimer: The article solely represents the author's personal views.