France and the European Commission are urging Chinese President Xi Jinping to use his influence on Russia to end the war in Ukraine while reiterating the EU’s unwavering support for Kyiv. President Emmanuel Macron hosted Xi in his first visit to Europe in five years, holding talks with him and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Paris to present a united front on issues like trade and Ukraine. China has deepened trade and military ties with Russia amid sanctions from the U.S. and its allies, especially following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
China and Russia reached a record trade volume of $240.1 billion in 2023, with Chinese exports to Russia increasing by 46.9% and imports from Russia rising by 13%. Western powers are concerned that Beijing might provide weapons to Moscow, bypassing existing sanctions on dual-use materials. Von der Leyen emphasized the need for China to intervene in Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, and Macron stressed the importance of coordination with China on the Ukrainian conflict, highlighting the urgency of U.S. and European military aid for Kyiv.
Kyiv’s troops are facing escalating conflict on Ukraine’s eastern front, awaiting crucial military support to push back against Russian advances. Despite the challenges, European leaders have assured Xi of their continued support for Ukraine, emphasizing that the conflict may persist, and Western powers are committed to backing Kyiv. Attempts have been made by Western powers for over a year to dissuade China from assisting Russia militarily. Xi has assured that China has no plans to supply weapons to Moscow and is willing to address the issue of dual-use materials facilitating Russia’s war efforts.
Xi stated that all parties seek an early ceasefire, the restoration of peace in Europe, and preventing further escalation of the conflict in Ukraine. He clarified that China did not contribute to the crisis in Ukraine and has actively worked to facilitate peace talks. The EU is discussing potential sanctions against certain Chinese companies, highlighting the need for these commitments from China to translate into action. Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit China in May for his first overseas trip of his new presidential term, potentially signaling continued collaboration between Russia and China.
In conclusion, France and the European Commission are urging China to leverage its influence with Russia to end the conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing the EU’s steadfast support for Kyiv. Amid deepening trade and military ties between China and Russia, Western powers remain cautious about potential Chinese assistance to Russia in circumventing sanctions. Despite the challenges faced by Ukraine’s troops, European leaders are committed to supporting the country and engaging with China on the crisis. It remains to be seen how China’s commitments will translate into action, with Xi stressing the importance of peace in Europe and averting further escalation in Ukraine. Putin’s upcoming visit to China may indicate continued cooperation between the two countries in global affairs.
