The Chinese government is under the spotlight in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, with pressure mounting from multiple fronts to play the ‘mediator’ role.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba recently asked China to use its ‘influence’ to stop the Russian attack on his nation.
The EU’s Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell stoked the flame, suggesting that China was in a better position than many other countries to play the role of an efficient mediator.
Why should China get involved?
China’s ill-perceived image in recent years stemming from its controversial policies in Hong Kong and Xinjiang has tarnished its reputation.
Needless to say, China will look to use this opportunity to try and save face in front of the international community. Moreover, peace in Europe stands to boost China’s economic stability significantly.
China’s track record playing ‘Mediator’
The early 2000s saw China fulfill the role of mediator and negotiator when it helped denuclearize North Korea during the Six-Party Talks the country hosted.
Although the Talks saw limited success then, world leaders praised the country’s efforts.
China’s true agenda revealed?
It’s evident to China that the ongoing war isn’t actually between Russia and Ukraine. It is, instead, between Russia and the US (and its Western allies).
Can China help ease the situation? Yes.
Will they, however? That appears highly unlikely.
China has little to go on concerning its relationship with the West.
On the other hand, Russia is an old friend—a country that it does not want to upset.
The best-case scenario one can expect to see is China distancing itself from the situation entirely—whether it’s addressing Russia’s aggressive tactics at the UN or choosing the moral high ground by supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty.
