Zelensky on China’s position: “It’s a pity they’re not on our side. but it’s an annoyance”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that China is not on Ukraine’s side politically and is not putting pressure on Russia, even though, in his view, it has sufficient influence to do so.

The interview was given to the Japanese television channel NHK.

According to Zelensky, he has never seen Beijing put pressure on Moscow. He did allow that such pressure could be taking place during bilateral meetings. The Ukrainian head of state believes that China currently “exerts enormous influence” over Russia and is capable of pushing it toward negotiations — however, this is not happening because China, in his assessment, is on Russia’s side.

“It’s a pity that China is not on our side in this war — politically. It’s not even about weapons. It’s about political will. And it’s a pity, because this war can be stopped instantly by strong leaders, including China. It’s a pity they’re not on our side. But it’s not a problem. It’s an annoyance,” — Zelensky said.

At the end of January, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun called on the parties to the conflict to observe three principles aimed at reducing tensions and preventing escalation: not to expand the battlefield, not to allow conflicts to escalate, and not to fan further confrontation.

In May, China’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Sun Lei pointed to the ongoing escalation and stated that the Chinese side is concerned about it and advocates for a political and diplomatic resolution of the conflict.