What is China’s peace proposal on how to end Ukraine war?

China has proposed a 12-point peace plan to end the war in Ukraine, as its President Xi Jinping prepares to visit Moscow. The peace proposal is part of China’s attempt to act as a mediator in ending Russia’s invasion, reflecting Beijing’s claim to be neutral despite opposing US and European efforts to condemn the conflict. The document echoes Russian complaints that Western governments are to blame for the February 2022 invasion and criticises sanctions on Russia. However, the plan received a lukewarm reception from both Russia and Ukraine, with Ukraine taking issue with Beijing’s proposals for not stating that Russia should withdraw behind borders in place since the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991.

The proposals call for a ceasefire and peace talks, and an end to Western sanctions against Russia, without naming specific nations. Other points call for the protection of civilians and prisoners of war, the cessation of hostilities, and the facilitation of grain exports. The plan also supports Russia’s stance against Nato, calling for the abandonment of the Cold War mentality and emphasising that the security of a region should not be achieved by expanding military blocs. China’s support for Russia has been largely rhetorical and political in the past, with Beijing preventing UN efforts to condemn Moscow. There is no evidence that it is currently supplying arms to Russia, though the US has said China is providing non-lethal support already and may do more.

China is seeking to promote “peace” through the visit of its president, which follows recent joint drills between Russian and Chinese forces since the invasion of Ukraine, most recently with the South African navy. The bilateral trade relationship between Moscow and Beijing has also soared since the conflict, as China has become Russia’s biggest buyer of oil, which is a key source of revenue for Moscow. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken accused China of trying to have it both ways, presenting itself as striving for peace in Ukraine publicly, but providing non-lethal assistance that ultimately aids Russia’s war effort in private.



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