Taking a step back in preparation for not being able to mediate
While Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to pay a state visit to Russia from the 20th to the 22nd, Chinese state media claim that “the key to solving the Ukrainian crisis lies in the hands of the United States, not China.” As the ‘China role theory’ spreads internationally, it seems to be taking one step out. In the United States, it was even pointed out that President Xi was “a ‘Putin supporter’ rather than a ‘war mediator’.”
On the 18th, the Global Times, a Chinese state-run English-language newspaper, emphasized that “President Xi’s visit this time is a normal exchange between China and Russia that takes place regardless of the Ukraine crisis.” “The key to solving this problem lies not in China, but in the hands of the United States and Western countries,” he added.
China’s mediation efforts have been in the spotlight recently as President Xi is reportedly seeking to hold a video conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky following a visit to Russia. However, Chinese state media rather threw the ball at the United States. It showed the appearance of taking a step back in case President Xi cannot find a solution even after meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The US kept the ‘China Role Theory’ in check. The New York Times (NYT) of the United States said on the 17th (local time), “President Xi’s move is the clearest sign of China’s support for President Putin.” We are becoming more and more determined to challenge the world order.”
White House National Security Council (NSC) Strategic Communications Coordinator John Kirby also pointed out in a briefing that day, “I do not support China’s request for a ceasefire to be put forth during the China-Russia talks.”
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Source: Donga
Mark Jones is a world traveler and journalist for News Rebeat. With a curious mind and a love of adventure, Mark brings a unique perspective to the latest global events and provides in-depth and thought-provoking coverage of the world at large.