Zelensky Accuses China of Aiding Russia Amid Rising Tensions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused China of assisting Russia in its efforts to thwart the forthcoming peace summit in Switzerland scheduled for June 15-16. Zelensky made these claims during a press conference following his appearance at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. According to Zelensky, Chinese diplomats and influence in the region are being exploited by Russia to sabotage the summit.
Zelensky alleged that despite promises from Chinese President Xi Jinping a year ago that China would not support Russia's military actions, the Beijing regime is contributing to the Kremlin's war efforts. 'We do not expect military support from China, and we have never asked for it. But we do not expect China to support Russia's defense,' Zelensky stated.
These accusations were met with denials from Chinese officials. Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun, who was also present at the Shangri-La Dialogue, asserted that China has not supplied weapons to any party involved in the conflict. 'China maintains strict control over exports of dual-use goods and is firmly on the side of peace and dialogue,' Dong said.
The Ukrainian leader also expressed frustration over China's refusal to meet with Ukrainian representatives, stating that despite multiple attempts to engage, China has shown no interest in establishing strong ties with Ukraine.
In addition, Beijing informed the Swiss organizers of the peace summit that it would not be sending a delegation, citing Russia's exclusion as the reason. Instead, China proposed a separate initiative in collaboration with Russia, which Zelensky sharply criticized, asserting that Ukraine as the victim should lead peace initiatives.
In parallel, the conflict on the ground continues to escalate. The Russian Defense Ministry recently claimed the conquest of the small town of Umanské in the Donetsk region in eastern Ukraine. Russian forces have intensified their offensive, capturing significant territories, as the Ukrainian army struggles with shortages of ammunition and manpower. Kyiv hopes that incoming Western military aid will help regain lost ground.
The controversy surrounding China's involvement comes as Ukrainian troops face severe shortages of weapons and manpower. The United States has warned Beijing about the consequences of supporting Russia through the export of dual-use goods. President Zelensky stressed that time is critical, especially with the ongoing humanitarian crisis involving Ukrainian children abducted by Russian forces.
Zelensky's calls for increased international support have been echoed in his meetings with Western leaders, including US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. The US has recently green-lighted Ukraine's use of American-supplied munitions for defensive strikes on Russian soil under certain conditions.
China's stance on the peace summit and its refusal to participate if Russia is excluded have drawn significant criticism. Zelensky urged Asia-Pacific countries to join the summit and support Ukraine's calls for a comprehensive peace formula that addresses nuclear security, food security, and the release of prisoners of war.
- Zelensky's allegations against China have added another layer of complexity to the ongoing conflict. The international community remains divided, with significant geopolitical implications.
- The Ukrainian leader's strong rhetoric underscores the urgency and gravity of the situation as the conflict enters its third year. Analysts suggest that diplomatic efforts will be crucial in determining the future course of the war.
