US Criticizes China's Role as Mediator in Ukraine Conflict
Date
3/22/2023 5:16:30 AM
(MENAFN) The United States has openly criticized China's efforts to act as a mediator in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. This marks the most direct criticism of China's involvement to date.
White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Tuesday that China could not be seen as an impartial mediator due to their refusal to criticize Russia's invasion of Ukraine and their continued purchase of Russian oil, despite Western sanctions targeting Moscow's energy industry. Kirby also pointed out that China has echoed Russian propaganda blaming the West for the conflict.
Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday to discuss the Ukraine conflict. The two leaders hailed a "new era" in Russian-Chinese relations. While the US sees their partnership as a "marriage of convenience," Kirby acknowledged that the US still wants to maintain channels of communication with China.
China has presented a 12-point position paper on the Ukraine conflict, calling for dialogue and respect for all countries' territorial sovereignty. Putin has praised China's paper and said he is open to talks on the conflict.
The US has been dismissive of China's proposal, saying a ceasefire now would only allow Russia to regroup and solidify their territorial gains. They have also raised concerns about China potentially providing military assistance to Russia. While Kirby is not aware of China having provided such assistance, the US has said that China is considering this move. China denies the claim.
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