Chinese volunteer reveals harsh realities in the Russian military
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 realised it was a mistaken decision.
In a conversation with CNN, the Chinese man described his difficult experiences on the front line. He was locked in a dark, barred pit for 21 days following a dispute with a commander over protective equipment.
"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, pointing to poor equipment, inadequate logistics, mistreatment, and rampant corruption as the main problems in Putin's army.
Chinese volunteers in the Russian army
At the beginning of 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 emphasised 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 approximately €2,223 a month along with additional bonuses for captured kilometres. He is currently recovering from injuries sustained.
