The United States issued a stern warning to China on Thursday, stating that Chinese President Xi Jinping cannot simultaneously improve ties with the West while supporting Russia in its invasion of Ukraine. State Department spokesman Vedant Patel emphasized that China cannot have it both ways, referring to China’s support for Russia’s defense industry expansion, which poses a significant threat to European security.
Despite not directly sending weapons to Russia, the United States has raised concerns about China’s backing of Moscow’s military efforts. Secretary of State Antony Blinken previously addressed this issue during a visit to Beijing last month. Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin met in Beijing, framing their nations’ relationship as a stabilizing force, with Putin seeking greater Chinese support for his war effort.
Patel reiterated that Chinese support for Russia’s defense industry not only endangers Ukrainian security but also poses a threat to European security as a whole. Xi Jinping, in a televised statement, expressed China’s desire for peace and stability in Europe, hinting at support for a peace process. However, Patel emphasized that the solution is simple from the US perspective – Russia must withdraw from Ukraine.
The escalating tensions between China, Russia, and the West highlight the delicate balance of international relations in the current geopolitical landscape. As the world watches closely, the actions and decisions of these global powers will have far-reaching implications for peace and security on the European continent.