China expressed readiness to help Ukraine
The Chinese authorities responded to President Volodymyr Zelensky's statement that Kyiv does not consider Beijing among possible security guarantors. The spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Mao Ning, emphasized that China's position on the war in Ukraine is 'objective and fair' and that Beijing is ready to play a 'constructive role' in seeking a political settlement.
The statement came after Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov assured that Moscow does not oppose the involvement of Western countries and China in a system of guarantees for Ukraine. However, Zelensky, after a meeting with journalists in Washington, clearly explained why he does not see China in this list. According to him, Beijing did not help stop the war at the beginning, facilitated Russia by opening the drone market, and did not fulfill its obligations under the Budapest memorandum after the annexation of Crimea. 'Ukraine does not need guarantors who have done nothing for our security. Guarantees should only come from those countries that are truly ready to help,' Zelensky emphasized.
Meanwhile, Welt reported that China has expressed willingness to consider participation in a peacekeeping contingent in Ukraine, but only on the condition that such a mission is approved by the UN Security Council. In the EU, this prospect has caused mixed reactions.
Discussion of security guarantees for Ukraine
Some diplomats believe that involving countries from the Global South could strengthen the idea of a peacekeeping mission, but others fear that China might use it for espionage and take an overtly pro-Russian position instead of a neutral one. The issue of security guarantees for Ukraine was also discussed during Putin's meeting with American leader Donald Trump, where Russia expressed agreement to the possible involvement of China in such a system. European countries are also considering sending their own military personnel, including German, British, and French, as part of a potential peace agreement, and about ten countries have already expressed readiness to join.
China's statement about its readiness to consider participating in a peacekeeping contingent in Ukraine has sparked debates in the EU and discussions among diplomats. Some are concerned about the possible consequences of China's presence in such a mission, while others support the idea of involving as many countries as possible to ensure Ukraine's security. The situation remains tense, and various governments continue to seek optimal solutions to this issue.