Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested that China’s peace plan for Ukraine could serve as a foundation for resolving the ongoing war. However, Putin stated that the plan could only be proposed when the West and Kiev are prepared for it.
The two leaders discussed the conflict and their bilateral relations during a meeting in Moscow. China’s plan, which was published last month, does not explicitly require Russia to withdraw from Ukraine, but rather emphasizes peace talks and respect for national sovereignty without specific proposals.
Ukraine has demanded that Russia withdraw from its territory as a prerequisite for any discussions, but there is no indication that Russia is willing to comply.
The US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, warned that advocating for a ceasefire before Russia’s withdrawal would legitimize its conquest of Ukraine.
Putin commented after his meeting with Xi that several provisions of China’s peace plan could be adopted to settle the Ukraine conflict, once the West and Kiev show readiness for it. However, he also acknowledged that Russia has yet to see any signs of such willingness.
Xi reiterated China’s impartial position and support for peace and dialogue, while also highlighting growing trade, energy, and political ties between the two countries. Putin pledged to maintain and exceed the high level of trade achieved last year, noting that China is Russia’s leading foreign trade partner.
