China-Russia trade

There are reasons for Kyiv to hope that Beijing might eventually push Moscow for an end to the Russia-Ukraine war. However, Kuleba’s visit to China has not been a decisive step in this direction.

Russia and China both see advantages in deepening their partnership but mismatches in their priorities persist. 

Full Chinese logistical support for Russia could be the real game changer of the war – and that support is growing more important and less discreet.

Sino-Russian oil trade grew in 2023, although Putin might have been piqued by Chinese actions on coal and inaction of the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline. 

Thirteen Chinese entities were included on a list of companies alleged to be breaching sanctions, which was shown to Xi in Beijing. 

As climate change makes the Arctic shipping route more feasible, China is leaning in.

The China-U.S. leaders’ meeting in San Francisco was constructive, but DC and Brussels shouldn’t forget Beijing’s enduring pro-Putin stance.

There are safer ways for Beijing to address Russian munitions shortages in Ukraine than sending Chinese weapons to the frontlines.

Anyone seriously considering China playing a role as peacemaker in Ukraine needs to wrestle with its constant and overt declarations of “unswerving” partnership with Russia.

Beijing is rejecting the G-7’s price caps on oil and potentially providing other important economic support for Moscow.

Six months into the Ukraine war, China has not hesitated to fill the void left by OECD disengagement with Russia – but is taking care not to compromise its own economic interests in the process.