Asger Risom
Former PLA soldier describes abuse, poor conditions, and regret after joining Kremlin forces in Ukraine
A Chinese national who joined Russian troops in Ukraine has publicly denounced his experience, calling Russia’s military “a joke” and urging others not to follow in his footsteps.
His testimony, shared with CNN, sheds light on the growing number of foreign fighters in the conflict—and the brutal realities many face.
From Enthusiasm to Disillusionment
The man, referred to as “Michael” by CNN to protect his identity, said he joined Russian forces in late 2023 after seeing recruitment ads on Chinese social media. Promised high pay and the allure of military life abroad, he arrived in Moscow on a tourist visa and soon signed a one-year contract with Russia’s Ministry of Defense.
Six months later, he deeply regrets his decision. After clashing with his commander over protective gear, Michael was imprisoned in a pit for 21 days—barely able to stand, with steel bars overhead.
Now recovering from battlefield injuries, he told CNN: “The world’s number two army is a joke.”
Abuse, Corruption, and Propaganda
Michael and another Chinese fighter both described rampant mistreatment, logistical failures, and severe corruption within the Russian ranks. Despite being promised bonuses for capturing Ukrainian territory, both said the experience was degrading and chaotic.
Ukrainian forces recently captured two Chinese nationals fighting for Russia, drawing international attention. President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed over 150 Chinese fighters may be active on the Russian side—a figure Beijing denies.
Some, like Michael, joined Wagner Group units before transitioning to formal contracts with the Russian military.
Online Recruitment and Censorship
Many Chinese mercenaries were lured by online ads promising masculinity, heroism, and financial reward. One ad read: “Not a man? Be a real man.” Though China officially discourages its citizens from joining foreign conflicts, social media platforms like Douyin (the Chinese version of TikTok) have carried such messages.
CNN confirmed that Chinese nationals are also fighting on the Ukrainian side, including a U.S.-based man named Jason who joined Ukraine’s International Legion.
However, he faced suspicion from commanders due to his nationality and was denied more active roles.
A Cautionary Tale
Michael, a former People’s Liberation Army soldier, said he had been drawn in by nostalgia and a desire for purpose.
But after a year of hardship, he urges fellow Chinese citizens to stay away: “I need to speak some truths. Don’t come here.”
His story adds a human face to a lesser-known aspect of the war: the exploitation and disillusionment of foreign volunteers caught between geopolitical propaganda and brutal frontline realities.