Ukraine renews calls to China to mediate in war with Russia
- Ukrainian foreign minister says it would be a big step to stop the humanitarian catastrophe from worsening
- Further conflict would not be in China’s interests, he says in interview with Chinese state news agency
In the first interview by a senior Ukrainian official with a Chinese state news outlet since Russia’s invasion in late February, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba urged China to call on Russia for a ceasefire to stop further escalation of the conflict.
“This would be an important measure to maintain peace and prevent the humanitarian catastrophe from worsening,” state news agency Xinhua quoted Kuleba as saying.
“All sides, including Russia, could have clearly seen that the war against Ukraine is a wrong move. All of the problems and concerns should be resolved via negotiations rather than resorting to displays of force.
“We hope China will call on Russia to stop this invasion, lift blockades on international trade and respect the territorial integrity of other nations.”
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Ukrainian forces optimistic they can hold off Russian advance in Donbas region
Kuleba delivered a similar message directly to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during a phone call last month.
