China's Balancing Act in the Russo-Ukrainian War

Russia and China: Growing Ties, Uncertain Alliances

Over the past decade, China and Russia have deepened their trade and defense ties, forming a strategic partnership that has been closely watched by the international community. However, despite these growing ties, the two countries have maintained a cautious distance, avoiding any formal alliance.

China's Ambiguous Diplomacy

China's Non-Condemnation of Russia

When Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, China refrained from condemning the action despite its stated foreign policy of respecting state sovereignty and territorial integrity. This decision highlighted China's complex alignment in the face of international condemnation of Russia.

War Game Scenarios and Provocative Actions

Western media outlets have reported on war game scenarios orchestrated by China, involving paid protesters clashing with police in Russia's far east. These reports suggest that China may be considering more proactive measures to support Russia, although such actions have not been officially confirmed.

Pressure from China Hawks and Sino-Sceptics

The Sino-sceptic and China hawk camps within the United States and other Western nations have been urging their governments to exert more pressure on China to denounce Russia's invasion. They argue that China's silence and possible support for Russia undermine global stability and the rules-based international order.

China and Russia's Joint Naval Exercises

Amidst the ongoing uncertainty, China and Russia held joint naval exercises in southern China on Sunday. While the exercises were announced as routine, they occurred at a time of heightened tensions between China and the West over Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

China's Proposed Peace Plan

To address the crisis, China's foreign ministry released a peace plan calling for an end to Western sanctions and a return to diplomatic negotiations. The plan's reception by international parties has been mixed, with some expressing cautious optimism and others dismissing it as inadequate.