NATO has issued a stern rebuke to China, accusing it of being a 'crucial accomplice' in Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine. The alliance's anniversary summit in Washington saw the People's Republic of China mentioned 15 times, highlighting its significance in the conflict. NATO's final document demands that Beijing cease supplying Russia with dual-use goods that can bolster its military efforts. According to a new study by think tanks Merics, Chatham House, and GMF, China’s support is pivotal in sustaining Russia’s war machine.
Georgian diplomat Natalie Sabanadze, a co-author of the study, emphasized China's role in undermining Western sanctions on Moscow. She stated that China's support is crucial for Russia, as it aims to counter Western dominance. From Beijing’s perspective, a prolonged conflict that weakens the West is in its interest, although it draws a red line at the use of nuclear weapons.
China, however, has rejected NATO's accusations, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian asserting that China is playing a 'constructive role' and not responsible for the escalation in Ukraine. Despite this, trade data shows a significant increase in Sino-Russian trade, with China buying Russian gas and oil on a large scale, fueling Russia's war efforts.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has opened the door to peace talks with Russia. In a notable shift, Zelensky expressed willingness for Russian participation in a future peace summit, which he plans to organize in November. This marks the first time Zelensky has suggested talks without demanding a prior Russian withdrawal from Ukrainian territory.
Despite the gesture, the positions of Kyiv and Moscow remain far apart. Russia continues to occupy nearly 20% of Ukrainian territory and demands Ukraine abandon its claims to annexed regions and renounce its alliance with the West. Zelensky's peace plan focuses on energy security, free navigation in the Black Sea, and prisoner exchanges. However, achieving lasting peace remains a distant prospect as both sides hold irreconcilable positions.
