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WORLD · SEP 30, 2026

Ukraine Recruits Chinese Volunteers to Combat Manpower Shortages

A Ukrainian reconnaissance unit is recruiting and training Chinese nationals to serve as drone pilots and technicians amid ongoing manpower shortages.

A Ukrainian reconnaissance military unit led by a commander known as Muse has launched a project to recruit and train Chinese volunteers to address manpower shortages in the war against Russia. The unit currently includes approximately a dozen Chinese nationals who specialize in FPV piloting and drone repair.

Muse and other Ukrainian officers manage the project while maintaining strict anonymity for members to protect them and their families from retaliation by the Chinese government. Volunteers report joining the effort due to dissatisfaction with life in China and a desire for freedom and democracy. However, the initiative faces significant obstacles, as five volunteers have already returned to China following pressure from Chinese authorities.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China has issued security alerts advising its citizens to avoid military operations in conflict zones. Within the Ukrainian military, some officers have expressed concern that Chinese recruits could potentially provide intelligence to Beijing.


Reported across 2 outlets
Actors
MuseMinistry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China

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