Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that ending the Russian-Ukrainian war currently does not align with China’s interests. According to him, Beijing holds significant leverage over Russia and personally over Putin, but does not use it to halt the aggression.
This is reported by Kyiv24
China’s Influence on Russia and Beijing’s Position
“We respect the unity and territorial integrity of every state that respects us. And undoubtedly, China could do everything for this (ending the war – ed.). Certainly, China is a strong country with a robust economy. The most important thing in our case is the influence that China undoubtedly has on Russia, personally on Putin. But with all due respect to the people of China, to its history and culture, we must honestly say. I do not see that it is in China’s interest to end this war,” he stated to reporters.
Zelensky added that China does not benefit from a weak or defeated Russia. This, in his opinion, contributes to the continuation of hostilities, as Beijing is not interested in stopping military aggression, and thus, the Ukrainian people suffer.
China’s Position on the War and the West’s Reaction
The Chinese authorities regularly call for peaceful negotiations, emphasizing the importance of respecting the territorial integrity of all states. At the same time, Beijing has never condemned Russia for its large-scale invasion of Ukraine that began in 2022.
Western countries have repeatedly accused China of providing economic support to Russia, particularly in supplying components for Moscow’s defense industry, which contributes to the continuation of military actions against Ukraine.