Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski condemns Russia's attempts to cripple Ukraine's economy as "forbidden tactics," as France and the European Commission urge China to use its influence to end the war. Meanwhile, fighting intensifies on Ukraine's eastern front, with Western powers determined to continue supporting Kyiv amid concerns about China's potential military aid to Russia.
Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski has strongly condemned Russia's efforts to sabotage Ukraine's economy, labeling them as "forbidden tactics." As the war in Ukraine marks its third Easter, Sikorski provided his analysis of the conflict and expressed his expectations for the upcoming NATO summit.
In a separate development, France and the European Commission appealed to Chinese President Xi Jinping to leverage his country's influence on Russia to end its war in Ukraine. The meeting took place in Paris, where President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Xi Jinping for his first visit to Europe in five years.
France and the EU emphasized their unwavering support for Kyiv, highlighting the importance of China's role in promoting peace. China, in recent years, has forged closer ties with Russia both economically and militarily, raising concerns among Western nations. Bilateral trade between China and Russia reached a record high of $240.1 billion in 2023, a substantial increase from the previous year.
Western powers have expressed particular apprehension over the possibility of China providing weapons to Moscow, potentially undermining existing sanctions on materials used for civilian and military purposes. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urged China to use its "influence on Russia to end Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine."
Macron echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the "absolutely decisive" nature of coordination with China on the Ukraine issue. He and von der Leyen sought to convey to Xi Jinping their determination to continue backing Ukraine, despite ongoing challenges.
Fighting on Ukraine's eastern front has escalated in recent weeks, with Ukrainian troops eagerly awaiting the arrival of crucial U.S. and European military aid to repel Russian advances. Western powers, for over a year, have endeavored to persuade China against providing military assistance to Russia.
Diplomatic sources indicated that Xi Jinping clarified Beijing's position, stating that they do not intend to supply weapons to Moscow. However, they will investigate the issue of dual-usage materials that could contribute to Russia's war effort.
The EU is currently considering potential sanctions against some Chinese firms involved in such activities. Xi Jinping stated that all parties desire a swift ceasefire and a return of peace to Europe, expressing China's efforts in promoting peace talks.
Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit China later in May, marking his first potential overseas trip during his new presidential term. The meeting will be closely watched as Western nations monitor China's stance on the Ukraine war and its implications for the broader geopolitical landscape.
