The United States has criticized China’s aim to be a mediator between Moscow and Kyiv over the war in Ukraine. White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stated that China cannot be seen as an impartial mediator due to its lack of criticism of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its continued purchase of Russian oil. Kirby also noted that China parrots Russian propaganda, blaming the West for the war. While Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Russia and met with President Vladimir Putin to discuss the war in Ukraine, Kirby said that the two countries are linked by a “marriage of convenience” rather than an alliance. China has presented a 12-point position paper on the war, calling for dialogue and respect for territorial sovereignty. Putin praised Beijing’s position paper and expressed openness to talks on Ukraine. However, Kirby said that Russia and China want to change the rules of the rules-based international order. Despite the criticism, the United States wants to maintain communication channels with China. Kirby added that he is not aware of China providing military assistance to Russia, although the United States has said that China is considering this step, which China denies.
