![]() This apparent justification for Russia’s invasion has been regarded widely in the West as an endorsement of Russia’s actions. In addition, it has opposed the imposition of sanctions against Russia and publicly blamed NATO and the US for neglecting Russia’s legitimate security concerns. At the same time, to preserve and uphold its longstanding principle, Beijing has called for Ukraine’s sovereignty to be respected. ![]() As a result, Beijing has adopted the uncomfortable position of characterizing the invasion as a “special military operation” - which is how Russia describes it - while avoiding use of the term “invasion” in its official references. Any public condemnation, however, would make a mockery of the so-called comprehensive strategic partnership with Russia. Clearly, China would find any perceived endorsement of Russia’s action as detrimental to its reputation. Moscow’s invasion is particularly awkward because Beijing is often viewed as the “high priest” of the idea of sovereignty and territorial integrity. It seems to be willing to mediate as a “neutral” actor and does not want to take sides. At the same time, China’s business sector is also adjusting to both maintaining normal economic ties with its Russian counterparts while suspending or altogether cancelling some transactions to avoid being sanctioned.īeijing’s official stance on the war has by and large been consistent in that it calls for dialogue and negotiation between Kyiv and Moscow, emphasizing its interest in promoting a peaceful solution while respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity. 1 As a result, domestic debate in China appears to be presenting different voices on how it should position itself in this conflict. On the other, it has its own national interests to protect and does not want to face sanctions or have its image tainted should it be perceived as endorsing Russia’s actions. On the one hand, it wants to maintain its strategic partnership with Moscow. Since the Russian invasion, though, Beijing seems stuck in an increasingly untenable balancing act. China maintains a close relationship with Russia but also intends to build its image as a responsible great power. ![]() In particular, the international community is paying great attention to China’s approach to the war. While the situation is still unfolding, the world is trying to find a solution. Meanwhile, the Russian economy is teetering under the weight of the severe and sweeping sanctions that the United States and its European allies have imposed on it. Vladimir Putin’s ill-conceived invasion of a sovereign state has gone badly, but his brutal use of force has devastated the country and continues to inflict suffering on millions of innocent Ukrainians. After many months of the Russia-Ukraine war, there is no sign of when or how it will end.
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