Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba is set to visit China this week to discuss ways to bring an end to Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine. The visit, which will take place from July 23 to 25, comes at the invitation of Beijing and signals a significant step in Ukraine's efforts to seek international support for a peaceful resolution to the conflict that has now stretched into its third year.
"The main topic of discussion will be the search for ways to stop Russia's aggression and China's possible role in achieving a stable and just peace," the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced in a statement. This visit underscores Ukraine's intent to engage with global powers to mediate and potentially facilitate a peace process.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is expected to host the talks, marking a notable engagement given China's perceived close relationship with Russia. Beijing declared a "no limits" partnership with Moscow in 2022, just days before Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Despite this, China has maintained that its ties with Russia are based on non-alliance principles and do not target any third party.
China's stance on the war has been cautiously neutral, refraining from condemning Russia while simultaneously calling for a political settlement to the conflict. This diplomatic balancing act has drawn criticism from Western nations who view China's proposals as potentially allowing Russia to retain control over seized Ukrainian territories. Nonetheless, Beijing's involvement is seen as crucial by Kyiv.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has previously highlighted the potential role of powerful nations, including China and the United States, in bringing an end to the war. Zelensky's vision for peace, articulated at an international summit held in Switzerland last month, seeks the support of major global players to ensure a sustainable resolution. Notably, Russia was not invited to the summit, and China abstained from attending in protest.
Despite the complexities, Ukraine's diplomatic outreach to China indicates a willingness to explore all avenues for peace. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry's statement emphasized the importance of China's role, given its geopolitical influence and economic ties with Russia.
In recent months, various peace initiatives have emerged as the conflict has persisted, with significant implications for global stability. The protracted war has led to severe humanitarian and economic consequences, prompting international calls for a resolution. The upcoming U.S. presidential election in November adds another layer of urgency, as the potential return of former President Donald Trump, who has threatened to cut aid to Ukraine, looms large over the diplomatic landscape.
China's proposal for a six-point peace plan, developed in collaboration with Brazil, suggests hosting an international peace conference recognized by both warring sides. While this plan was published in May, its reception has been mixed, with skepticism from Western countries about its feasibility and intentions.
