This is reported by Kyiv24
The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that it is analyzing the circumstances surrounding the detention of two of its citizens in Kyiv. The arrests were made on suspicions of espionage activities on behalf of China. Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, emphasized during a briefing that the Chinese side is conducting a thorough investigation of the situation.
“The Chinese side is currently verifying and studying the situation… If it is confirmed that the case involves Chinese citizens, Beijing will protect the legitimate rights and interests of its citizens in accordance with the law.”
Detention in Kyiv: Case Details
The Security Service of Ukraine announced on July 9 that two citizens of the People’s Republic of China had been detained in Kyiv. According to the investigation, the detainees attempted to illegally export secret documentation related to the Ukrainian missile system RK-360MC ‘Neptune’ to China.
Legal Qualification and Consequences
The detainees have been charged under part one of Article 114 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which pertains to espionage. If found guilty, the Chinese citizens face up to 15 years of imprisonment with confiscation of property.
China is monitoring the progress of the investigation and has stated its intention to protect the rights of its citizens in accordance with current legislation.