China’s Unease Over US Strategy if Russia Faces Defeat in Ukraine
Chinese fears have come to light as Foreign Minister Wang Yi openly expressed concerns that a potential defeat of Russia in the Ukraine conflict could prompt the United States to redirect its strategic attention entirely towards China. These revelations during discussions with European leaders reportedly caught Brussels officials off guard.
An Unexpected Admission in Brussels
Wang Yi shared these apprehensions during a comprehensive meeting with Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s foreign affairs chief. When pressed about these statements, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning chose to sidestep direct answers, avoiding confirmation or denial.
China’s Position on the Ukraine Conflict
In the extensive dialogue spanning four hours, Wang Yi firmly rejected allegations suggesting China is materially supporting Russia’s military campaign. He reasoned that if China were actively fueling the war, the conflict would have been resolved by now.
Some analysts interpret these remarks as an indication that while China did not initiate the war, the ongoing turmoil may serve its strategic interests by keeping Washington deeply engaged in Ukraine.
Accusations and Rebuttals
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has frequently accused China of indirectly aiding Russia, claiming Beijing halted drone sales to Ukraine and Western countries but continued to supply Moscow’s forces. Wang Yi’s response comes amid these swirling allegations and shifting Western military support.
Changing Western Support and Growing Sino-Russian Ties
The United States, a key supporter of Ukraine, recently paused shipments of vital weapons such as Patriot air defense missiles and precision-guided munitions, signaling a potential shift in aid dynamics.
Meanwhile, Moscow and Beijing appear to be strengthening their relationship. Plans are underway for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping to meet in China this September at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, underscoring deepening strategic cooperation between the two nations.
Engagements with European Leaders
Earlier discussions also involved Wang Yi’s meetings with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Sources indicate a strong consensus among EU leadership and Kallas on crucial topics addressed during these talks.
China’s candid acknowledgment of Washington’s potential pivot paints a complex picture of global strategic calculations in an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape.
