China closely monitors situation regarding Russia's invasion of Ukraine

Chinese Local Students Abroad, Fear Spreads in Kyiv
China Urges Caution Over Attaching Chinese National Flag to Body

[Asia Economy Beijing=Special Correspondent Jo Young-shin] Chinese media have informed their citizens about Russia's invasion of Ukraine and urged caution.

The state-run Xinhua News Agency reported that Russian President Vladimir Putin decided on the 24th to conduct a special military operation in the Donbas region.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

President Volodymyr Zelensky convened a National Defense and Security Council meeting and declared martial law across Ukraine. The Ukrainian government condemned Russia and appealed to the international community for assistance, while urging citizens to stay at home.

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued an official statement immediately after President Putin's announcement of the special military operation, calling on all countries to exercise restraint to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control.

Hua Chunying, Deputy Director-General (Vice Minister) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said regarding the invasion of Ukraine, "China is closely monitoring the situation on the ground."

The Chinese Embassy in Ukraine, through its WeChat account, stated, "The situation in Ukraine has rapidly deteriorated with military operations beginning, including bombings in some Ukrainian cities," and urged Chinese companies and citizens residing in Ukraine to exercise extreme caution for their safety.

They also emphasized staying at home as much as possible and keeping away from windows while indoors. If it is unavoidable to go outside, they advised attaching the Chinese national flag to one's body.

Chinese media Pengpai connected via video call with Chinese student Xu Xiejun, currently staying in Ukraine, to report on the local situation. Xu said that many vehicles are leaving Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine. He also explained that many Ukrainians carrying travel bags are seen on the streets, and fear is spreading among the people.

Meanwhile, Pengpai cited a statement from the Russian Ministry of Defense reporting that many Ukrainian soldiers have laid down their arms and left their posts.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.