China has swiftly denied a report that it was considering a peacekeeping role in Ukraine once Russia’s war comes to an end. The German newspaper Welt am Sonntag reported that Chinese diplomats had raised the idea of Chinese peacekeepers with the European Union, citing potential benefits for China’s global security ambitions.
The report comes as China has maintained a delicate balance between its strategic partnership with Russia and its efforts to contribute to global security. While China has shown little interest in UN peacekeeping missions, it may consider rebuilding Ukraine’s infrastructure after three years of conflict.
Western officials have expressed concerns about Chinese involvement in the region, citing booming trade with Russia and the supply of dual-use conflict materials. The possibility of Chinese peacekeepers marks a significant shift in its foreign policy, away from decades of non-intervention.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun denied the report, stating that China’s stance on the Ukraine crisis is consistent and clear. However, experts say that China has previously expressed interest in mediating the conflict and may consider participating in a peacekeeping mission to bolster its global security credentials.
As negotiations between Russia and Ukraine continue, China’s position remains unclear. The country has backed US-Russia talks but has not openly championed any specific outcome. With tensions easing slightly, Western leaders are left wondering if China will take a more active role in resolving the conflict.
Source: https://www.newsweek.com/china-ukraine-war-peacekeeping-plan-2049456