Zelensky calls for China's diplomatic role in ending Russia-Ukraine war

“We count on further cooperation and on China playing a strong diplomatic role in bringing Russia’s war against our country to an end,” the Ukrainian leader wrote on social media on Wednesday. “Peace can be our shared achievement.”

In his posts, Zelensky attached copies of Chinese and Ukrainian versions of a letter Xi sent to congratulate Ukraine on its Independence Day.

It is the second consecutive year Beijing has sent Kyiv such a public congratulatory message following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Beijing has not published the latest letter. Xi and Zelensky last spoke during a phone call in April 2023.

“China-Ukraine friendship serves the fundamental interests of both peoples. China is ready to work with Ukraine to continue upholding the principles of mutual respect and equality and mutual benefit to promote the long-term, healthy and stable development of bilateral relations,” Xi said in the letter posted by Zelensky.

More than four years into the Russia-Ukraine war, ground fighting continues and the humanitarian crisis is worsening, with no major diplomatic breakthrough in sight.

China’s position on the conflict has remained under close international scrutiny, while its closer partnership with Russia has been seen as a major stumbling block in its efforts to mend ties with the European Union amid its strategic rivalry with the United States.