According to sources familiar with the matter, Chinese PresidentXi Jinpingplan withUkrainepresidentZelenskyconductRussiaThe first talks since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine could be with the Russian president when Xi visits Moscow next weekPutinafter the meeting.
The Wall Street Journal exclusively reported that Xi’s separate talks with Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy reflected Beijing’s efforts to mediate an endRusso-Ukrainian WarIn one matter, play a more active role. Xi Jinping is expected to meet with Zelensky via videoconference.
According to sources, Xi Jinping is also considering visiting other European countries on the occasion of his visit to Russia, although his full itinerary has not yet been confirmed.
The Wall Street Journal pointed out that if Xi Jinping really talks directly with Zelensky, it will represent a major step for Beijing to persuade Russia and Ukraine. Europe has so far viewed Beijing’s peace plan with suspicion.
Making peace with Russia and Ukraine would also bolster Beijing’s credentials as a global power broker after China’s surprise move last week to restore diplomatic ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran.
Reuters earlier reported that Xi could visit Moscow as soon as next week. The Wall Street Journal reported in February that Xi was planning to visit Moscow in the coming months.
It will also be Xi’s first foreign trip since securing an unprecedented third term as president, as the 69-year-old leader tries to improve his standing as a global statesman and navigate tensions between China and the United States and its allies. Increasingly competitive situation.
China’s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The Wall Street Journal analyzed that the Russia-Ukraine war has put Beijing in a disadvantageous situation, so that Beijing actively urged Russia to stop the conflict with Ukraine. Due to China’s “unlimited” partnership with Russia, Xi Jinping himself has a close relationship with Putin; on the other hand, the United States and its allies are increasingly distrustful and nervous about China. In this case, Xi Jinping is forced to strike a balance between the two.
The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs released “China’s Position on the Political Solution to the Ukraine Crisis” in February. This document has a total of 12 items, including ceasefire and cessation of war, initiation of peace talks, protection of civilians and prisoners of war, prohibition of nuclear weapons and prohibition of war, etc. It is regarded as the Chinese version of the “Ukrainian Peace Plan.”
