China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi has pledged "firm measures" in response to U.S. allegations that Beijing is supporting Russia in its war against Ukraine.
Promoting Peace
According to Hotnews this statement was made during a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Vientiane, Laos, on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit.
Despite China’s deep economic, diplomatic, and military ties with Russia, which have strengthened since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Beijing positions itself as a mediator in the conflict.
Chinese officials argue that, unlike Western countries supplying arms to Ukraine, China is a restrained actor aiming to promote peace.
Western capitals, particularly Washington, have criticized China for increasing economic support to Moscow and allege that Chinese companies are supplying goods that aid Russia’s war efforts.
Refuted Accusations
Wang Yi, however, refuted these accusations, stating that China "opposes the tarnishing of its reputation and the fabrication of false accusations." He emphasized that China will not tolerate pressure or blackmail and will take decisive actions to protect its core interests and legitimate rights.
The dialogue between Wang Yi and Blinken highlights the ongoing tensions between China and the U.S. over the Russia-Ukraine conflict. While China has never condemned the Russian invasion, it has called for the respect of territorial integrity for all nations, including Ukraine. Wang Yi reiterated China's stance on promoting peace talks between Kyiv and Moscow.
Furthermore, Wang Yi criticized the U.S. for imposing unilateral sanctions on Chinese companies accused of supporting Russia's war efforts. He urged Washington to cease imposing its laws and restrictions beyond its borders, indicating a firm stance against what Beijing perceives as U.S. overreach.
