Kathrine Frich
A Chinese national who once served in the People’s Liberation Army has come forward to condemn Russia’s military.
A Chinese national who once served in the People’s Liberation Army has come forward to condemn Russia’s military.
After volunteering to fight in Ukraine, he now regrets the decision, calling the experience abusive, chaotic, and humiliating.
His story is a rare firsthand account of foreign fighters caught in Russia’s war.
From Hype to Harsh Reality
Referred to as “Michael” by CNN to protect his identity, the former PLA soldier joined Russian forces in late 2023.
He was lured by flashy recruitment ads on Chinese social media that promised adventure, high pay, and purpose.
He arrived in Moscow on a tourist visa and signed a one-year contract with Russia’s Ministry of Defense. But within six months, he deeply regretted it.
Punished for Speaking Out
Michael clashed with a Russian commander over missing protective equipment.
As a result of that he was thrown into a pit and held there for 21 days, barely able to stand, with steel bars above his head.
Now recovering from injuries, he told CNN: “The world’s number two army is a joke.”
A Culture of Abuse and Corruption
Michael isn’t alone. Another Chinese fighter described similar experiences, including broken promises and widespread mistreatment.
Bonuses promised for capturing Ukrainian positions never materialized, and the environment was marked by logistical failures and corruption.
Both men said their time with the Russian military was degrading and disorganized.
Foreign Fighters on Both Sides
Ukrainian forces recently captured two Chinese nationals fighting for Russia, drawing international attention. President Zelensky claimed over 150 Chinese fighters may be on the Russian side, though Beijing denies this.
Some fighters originally joined Wagner Group units before transferring to official Russian military contracts.
Social Media Propaganda Targets Young Men
Despite China discouraging its citizens from joining foreign conflicts, recruitment ads still circulate online, especially on Douyin, China’s version of TikTok. Messages often invoke masculinity, pride, and heroism.
One ad reportedly read: “Not a man? Be a real man.”
Chinese Fighters in Ukraine Face Suspicion
CNN confirmed that Chinese nationals are also fighting for Ukraine. One example is “Jason,” a U.S.-based Chinese man who joined Ukraine’s International Legion.
Despite his commitment, he was viewed with distrust by some commanders and denied active combat roles.
“Don’t Come Here”: A Warning to Others
Michael, who once longed for purpose and redemption, now wants to warn others. Reflecting on a year of hardship, he said:
“I need to speak some truths. Don’t come here.”
His account highlights a lesser-known dimension of the war, one where foreign fighters are drawn in by propaganda but left to face violence, exploitation, and disillusionment on the battlefield.