Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during a speech at a high-level UN Security Council meeting on the situation in Ukraine, emphasized China’s crucial role in influencing Russia. The head of state highlighted that Russia is currently “completely dependent” on China, and it is Beijing that has the ability to compel the Kremlin to cease its aggression against Ukraine.
This is reported by Kyiv24
China as a key ally of Russia
In his speech, Zelensky pointed out that China, possessing significant influence over Moscow’s policies, could contribute to ending the war but chooses a passive stance. He noted that without China’s support, Russia would not be able to withstand Western sanctions and maintain economic stability.
“China is also represented here. A powerful country, from which Russia is now completely dependent. If China truly wanted to end this war, it could force Moscow to stop the invasion. Without China, Putin’s Russia is nothing. But China too often remains silent and stays on the sidelines instead of taking active steps for peace,” Zelensky stated.
Beijing and Moscow’s relations during the war
China officially claims neutrality in the war between Russia and Ukraine, emphasizing that it does not provide military assistance to either side, unlike Western countries. However, Beijing remains one of Russia’s closest political and economic partners. NATO countries consider China a “crucial facilitator” of Russian aggression, as Beijing has never condemned the Kremlin’s actions.
China continues to maintain close contacts with Moscow. Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping have met multiple times and, in February 2022, just before the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, signed an agreement on unrestricted strategic partnership. China is Russia’s largest trading partner, providing it with ways to circumvent Western sanctions.
Research shows that after the implementation of Western sanctions, China became the main supplier of rare metals for the Russian military industry, allowing the Russian Federation to continue producing weapons.