Wang Guangjun, one of two Chinese fighters captured by Ukrainian forces in early April 2025. [SBU/SSU]

Chinese fighters take up positions alongside Russians in Ukraine

STORY BY STEPHEN J. THORNE

Ukrainian intelligence documents indicate at least 163 Chinese nationals have been fighting alongside Russian troops in Ukraine, and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says there are likely more.

The Kyiv Independent newspaper reviewed two documents, including one with photos, passport details and other information on 155 Chinese fighters. Another document detailed 13 Chinese recruits selected for service in the Russian army as of April 2, 2025.

U.S. intelligence sources told Reuters the fighters are mercenaries who don’t appear to have a direct link to China’s government. Beijing has always denied any direct Chinese involvement in the war since Russian forces invaded in February 2022.

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Aviation Nation: How Canadians Contributed to Flight and Space Around the World is a new children’s book from the RCAF Foundation. [RCAF Foundation]

RCAF Foundation launches children’s book on aviation

STORY BY ALEX BOWERS

“It seems like in the environment we’re in currently,” says the RCAF Foundation’s founding CEO, Jeremy Diamond, “it is even more important to make sure that we understand our stories, our background, our origins, and be proud of what we’ve done, while equally providing a space to be critical and introspective about some of the things we’ve done and achieved throughout our shared history as a nation.”

This is exactly what the RCAF Foundation itself strives for, established in 2021 to “recognize, foster and celebrate the Royal Canadian Air Force through community engagement, education programs and commemorative activities.” It began with a focus on marking the air force’s centenary in 2024. Nevertheless, Diamond’s hopes for the organization stretch well into the future.

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