China-Russia Ties: How Ukraine’s Disappointment with Beijing is Shaping its Post-Conflict Reconstruction Efforts

The close relationship between China and Russia could be strengthened by President Zelensky’s harsh criticism of China, according to analysts. At the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on June 2, Zelensky expressed disappointment with Beijing’s stance in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. He accused China of helping Moscow obstruct the upcoming peace summit in Switzerland. However, China denied these accusations and stated that its stance towards both Russia and Ukraine was fair.

Despite Ukraine’s efforts to involve China in the peace process, Beijing has remained distant, leading to tensions between the two countries. While Ukraine seeks support from influential countries like China for post-conflict reconstruction, China’s reluctance to engage fully in the peace summit signals a preference for its relationship with Russia.

President Zelensky’s public criticism of China at the Shangri-La Dialogue reflects his dissatisfaction with the growing China-Russia relationship. However, experts are skeptical that this criticism will lead to any significant changes in Beijing’s policy towards Moscow. In fact, China prioritizes its relationship with Russia over ties to Kiev. This strategic decision by China could have long-term implications for Ukraine’s post-conflict reconstruction efforts as influential countries like China choose to prioritize other alliances over involvement in Ukraine’s peace process.

In contrast to the close relationship between Xi Jinping and Putin, President Xi has only had one phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky over two years ago. Analysts suggest that this hesitation by Beijing to get involved in the conflict is a result of its desire not to antagonize Moscow or jeopardize its economic ties with Russia.

However, despite this reluctance by Beijing, tensions between it and Ukraine remain high due to several factors such as territorial disputes and human rights violations committed by Russian forces against Ukrainians.

In conclusion, while President Zelensky’s strong reaction may have alienated him from Chinese support for Ukraine’s peace process, it is clear that Beijing values its relationship with Moscow more than its ties to Kiev. This strategic decision by Beijing could have long-term implications for Ukraine’s post-conflict reconstruction efforts as influential countries like China choose to prioritize other alliances over involvement in Ukraine’s peace process.