Chinese officials have unofficially confirmed their readiness to send peacekeeping forces to Ukraine, contingent on approval from the UN Security Council, despite skepticism in Brussels.
Media: China Ready for a Peace Mission in Ukraine
According to a report in the German newspaper “Die Welt,” Chinese officials have confirmed their willingness to participate in a peacekeeping contingent in Ukraine. The publication cited anonymous EU diplomats who stated, “Beijing would be ready to do so if peacekeeping forces are deployed based on a UN Security Council mandate.” This stance, however, has elicited mixed reactions in Brussels. Supporters argue that Chinese involvement could promote the idea of a peacekeeping mission among Global South nations, while critics warn that China might prioritize espionage and adopt pro-Russian positions in the event of conflict.
Brussels Skeptical of Beijing’s Readiness
Most EU member states prefer a peacekeeping mission to Ukraine without a UN mandate. Obtaining such approval is nearly impossible, as the UN Security Council requires Russia’s consent, which holds a veto. Moscow’s repeated demands from Kiev, including the annexation of Crimea and Donbas, Ukraine’s demilitarization, and the exclusion of Western troops, underscore this challenge. According to Reuters, these conditions were reportedly conveyed by Putin to Trump during their Alaska meeting.
Zelenskyy’s Declaration
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Saturday (August 23) that he is ready to negotiate with Vladimir Putin to end the war. He made the remark in a social media post summarizing a discussion with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. “I confirmed my willingness to meet President Putin in any format,” Zelenskyy wrote. “However, we see that Moscow is once again trying to drag the issue further. It is crucial for the Global South to send clear signals and push Russia toward peace.” He also noted conversations with Ramaphosa about collaboration to ensure food security.
Source: Gazeta, – “Die Welt”, – Reuters