Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused China of directly supporting Russia’s war efforts by supplying weapons—including gunpowder and artillery—and participating in weapons production on Russian territory. Speaking Thursday, Zelenskyy said Ukrainian intelligence had confirmed Chinese involvement and promised to present supporting documentation in the coming week.
“We now have verified information that China is arming the Russian Federation. Even more alarming, Chinese representatives appear to be involved in weapons manufacturing within Russia itself,” Zelenskyy said.
Beijing quickly dismissed the claims as “groundless,” reiterating its official stance of neutrality and calling for peace talks. “China’s position on Ukraine is consistent and clear—we support a ceasefire and a political resolution,” said foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian.
Amid these developments, Ukraine continues to endure heavy Russian bombardment. Though strikes on energy facilities have decreased, Zelenskyy warned that attacks on civilian infrastructure have surged. “The volume of missile and drone attacks has not decreased—only their targets have shifted,” he said during a press briefing.
On the diplomatic front, Kyiv signed a “memorandum of intent” with Washington for a reconstruction investment fund, with a minerals deal expected to follow on April 26. Meanwhile, European and U.S. officials, including Trump-era envoys, gathered in Paris to reignite ceasefire efforts. The unprecedented coordination raised cautious optimism, with French officials describing it as “a positive process.”
However, hopes for peace remain fragile. Russia’s UN ambassador rejected a comprehensive ceasefire during Thursday’s Security Council meeting, despite Ukraine’s ongoing commitment. “Ukraine wants peace,” said Slovenia’s UN ambassador Samuel Zbogar, emphasizing that Kyiv agreed to a full ceasefire five weeks ago—an offer Russia has consistently rebuffed.
The human toll continues to climb. Overnight Russian attacks killed two people and injured at least 27 more in the cities of Kharkiv and Sumy. Authorities say cluster munitions caused widespread damage to residential areas.
As accusations mount and diplomatic channels cautiously reopen, the war enters its 1,150th day with no clear end in sight.