Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed strong support for Russia's diplomatic efforts to resolve the Ukraine crisis during a high-stakes call with Vladimir Putin on Monday. China-Russia relations remain pivotal as Moscow seeks international backing for proposed peace talks with Washington, according to state broadcaster CCTV reports.
Putin briefed Xi on recent U.S.-Russia negotiations regarding Ukraine's future, though specific details remain undisclosed.
'China commends Russia and involved parties for their active crisis resolution strategies,'Xi stated during the dialogue. The Kremlin confirmed Beijing's readiness to facilitate peaceful negotiations through multilateral channels.
This strategic discussion unfolded as European leaders rallied in Kyiv:
- 12 Western leaders marked Russia's invasion anniversary
- Coordinated military aid packages announced
- New sanctions against Moscow proposed
Xi reiterated China's unique peace mediation framework established through September's 'Friends of Peace' coalition. The initiative gained momentum with last year's China-Brazil joint proposal advocating:
1. Immediate ceasefire protocols
2. Neutral territory peace conference
3. Territorial integrity guarantees
Economic ties continue strengthening the political alliance, with Chinese energy imports from Russia surging 24% since 2022 sanctions. Beijing now accounts for 35% of Moscow's crude oil exports, cementing an unprecedented economic partnership amid Western isolation attempts.
Analysts highlight the call's timing as critical, with Ukrainian forces preparing spring counteroffensives. While avoiding direct arms supplies, China's diplomatic support provides Moscow strategic leverage in protracted negotiations. The dialogue underscores shifting global power dynamics as non-Western nations increasingly shape conflict resolution frameworks.
