The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, openly stated that there is information indicating the involvement of Chinese citizens in the production and possible supply of technologies for creating drones to the Russian Federation
This was announced during a briefing published by the "Ukrinform" agency, where the head of state reported that Ukrainian intelligence agencies are already working to obtain additional data and are prepared to share it with the Chinese side in the near future. According to him, Ukrainian security services possess evidence that specifically shows Chinese citizens working at Russian enterprises are engaged in the malicious smuggling of technologies related to drone manufacturing. Zelensky emphasized that he will request the Security Service of Ukraine to immediately provide this information to their Chinese counterparts and to deliver a detailed analytical report regarding the role of these citizens in the drone production process. "I have already contacted our intelligence agencies with a request to provide the Chinese side with broader information concerning Chinese citizens currently working in Russia at UAV manufacturing plants. According to our investigations, Russia may have made unofficial arrangements with these individuals — directly with them, outside of any coordination with the Chinese government. Such agreements likely contain confidential information and technologies, restricted to a limited circle of persons, and the documents describe technical features of drone manufacturing. The Chinese authorities need to be informed about how Russian experts are working with their nationals and whether they are violating international agreements," Zelensky emphasized. At the same time, the president highlighted Ukraine’s intention to establish effective channels of bilateral dialogue with Beijing for the transfer of all necessary data. Additionally, Zelensky reported that the relevant coordination is already being carried out by Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs: this diplomatic agency is to relay a brief but significant message concerning potential arms and military technology supplies from China to Russia. According to him, this information is already being transmitted through the embassy and diplomatic channels in Beijing. "We aim to convey to the Chinese side all facts and grounds for concern. Since there have not yet been personal or direct diplomatic negotiations between the leaders of our countries on this issue, communication and information exchange are occurring through diplomats and embassies. We believe that an open and transparent dialogue will help clarify the situation and prevent possible unwanted consequences," Zelensky noted. He added that Ukrainian intelligence is actively working to uncover schemes of technology transfer and usage, and the side hopes to cooperate with China to temporarily contain further violations. The president considers that it is important not only to prevent military and technological threats but also to strengthen trust between countries in the field of international security. Overall, the situation remains tense: while Ukrainian authorities do their best to halt the transfer of technologies that could underpin new military actions in the region, discussions and diplomatic consultations continue in Beijing and Moscow. One matter is to determine the scale of cooperation between Chinese nationals and Russia in drone manufacturing, and another is to create mechanisms for monitoring and preventing violations of international agreements in this delicate sector. At the same time, Ukraine emphasizes the importance of open and honest contacts with China to prevent escalation and safeguard national interests.