Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused China of aiding Russia in disrupting an upcoming peace conference on the war in Ukraine. Zelenskyy claimed that China is pressuring other countries and their leaders not to attend the talks, which are organized by Switzerland. He criticized China for being an instrument in the hands of Russian President Vladimir Putin and supporting the ongoing conflict. Despite China’s neutral stance on the war, there is evidence that Chinese parts are ending up in Russian weaponry, raising concerns about indirect support to Russia.
The Swiss had hoped that China would participate in the mid-June peace conference, but Chinese authorities signaled that it was unlikely. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that there was a gap between the meeting’s arrangements and China’s demands, making it challenging for China to take part in the talks. Zelenskyy expressed disappointment in the failure of some countries to commit to attending the summit and urged defense officials to participate. He emphasized the urgent need for peace discussions, highlighting nuclear security, food security, prisoners of war release, and the return of abducted Ukrainian children as key topics of discussion.
Zelenskyy stressed the importance of broad international participation in the peace talks, stating that a global majority would compel Russia to listen to the agreements made. He planned to meet with various leaders, including Singapore’s prime minister and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines, to encourage their involvement in the summit. Singapore Defense Minister Ng Eng Hen expressed solidarity with Ukraine and condemned the invasion, noting Singapore’s support for a rules-based international order that ensures security for all nations.
While Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun did not mention the Switzerland meetings in his address, he emphasized China’s promotion of peace talks and its commitment to peace and dialogue. He denied providing weapons to either side of the conflict and reiterated China’s stance on supporting peaceful resolution. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who attended the security conference, condemned Putin’s aggression in Ukraine and praised the courage of Ukraine’s troops and people. The international community has rallied to support Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression, including countries in the Indo-Pacific region.
Overall, tensions are rising as Ukraine accuses China of aiding Russia in disrupting the upcoming peace conference. Zelenskyy’s efforts to rally global participation in the talks reflect the urgent need for dialogue and resolution to the conflict. The involvement of key players like the U.S. and Singapore, along with support from countries across the Indo-Pacific, underscores the international community’s commitment to upholding a rules-based order and promoting peace in the region. The outcome of the peace conference in Switzerland will be crucial in determining the path forward for addressing the crisis in Ukraine and achieving a lasting and just peace.
