China's attempt to mediate the Ukraine conflict began over a year ago with the introduction of a 12-point document aimed at establishing general principles for ending the war. Initially, this document received a lukewarm reception from both Russia and Ukraine.
The US has accused China of projecting a false image of peacemaking while failing to condemn Russia's invasion.
Last month, in a bid to reinvigorate diplomatic engagement, Chinese President Xi Jinping presented additional principles during discussions with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
These principles reportedly include realistic and constructive steps to ease tensions and foster global stability, alongside measures to restore peace, enhance stability, and mitigate the economic impact on the global stage, according to Reuters.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov praised the Chinese proposals as a "reasonable plan that the great Chinese civilization proposed for discussion."
In an interview with China’s Xinhua news agency ahead of his planned visit to Beijing, Putin also expressed his support for China's initiative.
He stressed that Russia was open to dialogue and commended China’s thoroughly considered approach to resolving the crisis.
"In Beijing, they really understand its root causes and its global geopolitical importance," Putin stated.
Despite these diplomatic efforts, Russia continues to frame the conflict as a battle against what it terms the "collective West." This narrative includes issues surrounding NATO's eastward expansion and military activities near Russia’s borders.
Russia characterizes its military actions in Ukraine as a "special operation" to protect the region from what it calls fascist elements, a claim both Ukraine and the West reject as baseless.
