China's leader to speak to Zelensky after visiting moscow
After a meeting with russian dictator vladimir putin in moscow, Chinese leader Xi Jinping plans to speak with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This conversation will be the first since the beginning of russia's full-scale war against Ukraine.
The Wall Street Journal reports this, referring to the sources.
"A direct conversation with Mr. Zelensky, if it happens, would mark a significant step in Beijing's efforts to play peacemaker in Ukraine, which have so far been met with skepticism in Europe.
It would also bolster Beijing's credentials as a global power broker after it facilitated a surprise diplomatic breakthrough between Saudi Arabia and Iran last week," – the WSJ noted.
It is reported that Xi's possible meeting with the Ukrainian president will be held online.
According to the publication's sources, the Chinese leader's visit to russia and Xi's possible conversation with Zelensky reflect Beijing's desire to play a more active role in mediating to end the war in Ukraine.
It is also reported that Xi is considering visiting other European countries as part of his trip to russia, although his full itinerary has yet to be confirmed.
For reference:
Earlier, the People's Republic of China presented its "peace plan" to end russia's war in Ukraine, dedicated to its anniversary. However, the "plan" appeared more of a political statement by Beijing rather than a working mechanism initiative. Its main goal is to allow China to have a seat at the negotiations table as one of the peace brokers and ensure Beijing's active role in future security arrangements in Europe. It also could be a way to disguise intentions to supply arms to russia via third countries (Iran, Tajikistan, Belarus, and North Korea).
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said he wanted to meet Chinese president Xi Jinping to discuss his peace proposal for ending the ongoing war in Ukraine.
It should be noted that the US believes China spends billions of dollars to spread "poisonous disinformation," including messages that are completely aligned with russia on Ukraine.
