During his visit to the Kremlin, Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu conveyed President Xi Jinping’s “cordial greetings” to Vladimir Putin. Li Shangfu’s visit to Russia, which is due to last until April 19, comes after that of Xi Jinping in March in Moscow. During this summit, the two presidents displayed their good understanding, posing as strategic partners determined to resist American hegemony.
Since the start of the Russian offensive in Ukraine, Beijing has declared itself officially neutral and has never publicly condemned Moscow. Xi Jinping has also never spoken to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. However, China published its 12-point position on the Ukrainian crisis at the end of February, in which it formally calls for respect for the sovereignty of all countries – including Ukraine. Saying it is firmly opposed to any attack on civilians, Chinese diplomacy is also advocating for peace talks and urging parties not to use nuclear, bacteriological or chemical weapons.