The Kremlin on Thursday dismissed comments by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that China was being drawn into the conflict in Ukraine, saying that Beijing has a “balanced position”.

China warned Ukraine against making “irresponsible” remarks after Mr Zelensky said Ukrainian intelligence had revealed at least 155 Chinese citizens were fighting on the side of Russia in Ukraine.

Mr Zelensky said Russia was recruiting Chinese nationals via social media and that Chinese officials were aware of it.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian called Beijing “a firm supporter and active promoter of a peaceful settlement of the crisis” and said China always attempts to dissuade its citizens from signing up to fight in foreign conflicts.

Asked about Mr Zelensky’s remarks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow was not dragging Beijing into the conflict.

“This is not the case. China takes a balanced position. China is our strategic partner, friend (and) comrade,” Peskov said. “Zelensky is wrong.”