NewsChinese fighter reveals harsh reality of joining russian forces

Chinese fighter reveals harsh reality of joining russian forces

A Chinese man, who had fought on Russia's side against Ukraine since May 2024, shared his experiences with the American station CNN. The man, who enlisted in Vladimir Putin's army to "experience military life abroad," quickly realized it was a mistaken decision.

Chinese soldier in Putin's army: "The world's number two military is a sheer joke"
Chinese soldier in Putin's army: "The world's number two military is a sheer joke"
Images source: © Getty Images | Contributor
Magda Żugier

In a conversation with CNN, the Chinese man described his difficult experiences on the front line. He was confined in a dark, barred pit for 21 days following a dispute with a commander over protective gear.

"I have to speak out some truths and warn those irrational Chinese – don’t come over here. The world's number two military is a sheer joke," he said, highlighting poor equipment, inadequate logistics, mistreatment, and rampant corruption as the main problems in Putin's army.

Chinese volunteers in the Russian army

In early April 2025, Ukrainians captured two Chinese nationals supporting the Russian invasion. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky informed that over 150 Chinese citizens are fighting within the ranks of the Russians.

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that China has not sent troops to Ukraine and advises its citizens against travelling to the country.

The Chinese man, who signed a year-long contract with the Russian Ministry of Defence, fought near Bakhmut, earning CAD 3,300 a month along with additional bonuses for captured kilometres. He is currently recovering from injuries sustained.

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