Russo-Ukrainian war and China’s global interests

Abstract

In this paper, we will explore China’s interest in becoming involved in the Ukrainian peace process, focusing on two main aspects. First, we will examine the Sino-Russian strategic partnership in the context of China’s efforts and involvement. Second, we will analyse the potential benefits that China could gain from the war in Ukraine. The author argues in favour of the position that achieving peace in Ukraine is not China ‘s primary concern. Instead, China’s main objective is to safeguard its own strategic and geopolitical position by actively participating in this process. Russia’s defeat in the war is not in China’s interest. So, China is making efforts to promote its approach to the peace process in Ukraine, to keep the existing status quo and to maintain Russia’s control over the occupied territories. A relatively weak Russia, albeit possessing significant military and nuclear capabilities, would be the best solution for China. This would enable the formation of a solid counterbalance to the U.S.-led West, with a further aim to gain global control and establish a new world order with its own set of rules. Ukraine would continue to fall within the spheres of influence of both Russia and China, while the Western powers would need to retreat and follow China’s command.