China-Ukraine relations

Xi will visit Moscow on March 20-22 as speculation grows China is going to push harder for a diplomatic settlement to the war in Ukraine.

Not lacking for self-confidence, Xi’s decision to insert himself into Russia-Ukraine mediation presents outsized opportunities and risks for Beijing, especially in Europe. 

China’s top diplomat toured Europe to try to explain Beijing’s “neutral” position on the conflict – but topped it off with a visit to Russia. 

As the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion looms, China's positioning on the Ukraine war is coming under increased scrutiny.

Insights from Yurii Poita.

Ukraine was not one of China’s largest partners, but they had important ties in a number of areas that will be difficult to replace.

China’s attitude toward the Ukraine war stems from functional calculations, diplomatic and military bonds with Kyiv, strategic considerations, and normative reflection.

The fact that Beijing was caught off guard hints at the fragility of its partnership with Russia.

The reputational cost – both on the international stage and with the Chinese people – would be great if Beijing threw its support behind Russian aggression.

Insights from Bonny Lin.

China's BRI and agricultural needs led Beijing to seek partnership with Ukraine. Now Russia's military build-up has complicated those calculations.