Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a pointed demand for China to take a stand regarding the latest Russian missile attacks on Kyiv, which have tragically led to the deaths of at least 14 individuals, including three children, and left many injured.
The Newsweek team has reached out to both the Chinese foreign ministry and the Russian authorities for their comments on the situation.
In past statements, China has publicly denounced the escalation of the conflict and expressed its intent to contribute positively toward a peaceful resolution.
Significance of the Situation
China plays a crucial role as a strategic ally of Russia, significantly aiding its economy, which has been buttressed by substantial oil purchases amidst international sanctions. Over time, Zelensky has criticized China for its lack of intervention during the Russian invasion launched in 2022, and more critically for its ongoing support for Moscow.
Zelensky recently met with former President Donald Trump at the White House on August 18. This meeting was part of an increased diplomatic effort by the U.S. to resolve the conflict initiated by President Vladimir Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Trump had earlier discussed a potential three-way meeting with Zelensky, although there has been no significant movement towards making that a reality, and it now seems unlikely that both Putin and Zelensky will convene.
The relentless Russian assaults on Ukraine illustrate the long-held stance of Zelensky and European allies—namely, that a ceasefire is essential for any diplomatic discussions to take place.
Key Points
In a post on X, Zelensky remarked that the recent wave of “massive” Russian assaults characterized by missile and drone strikes serves as a blatant statement to those advocating for peaceful dialogue globally.
He stated, “Russia opts for missiles instead of pursuing negotiations from the table.”
Zelensky lamented that Russia acts without regard for repercussions, boldly taking advantage of the world’s silence on the plight of murdered children, while many choose to make excuses for Putin.
He specifically reached out to China, calling for it to express its stance clearly. “We anticipate a response from China regarding the ongoing situation. China has historically advocated against the expansion of war and for a ceasefire, but sadly, the situation persists due to Russia’s actions,” he noted. Furthermore, he urged Hungary to weigh in on the matter, given its closer ties with Russia than other European Union nations.
“We expect all those who have called for peace to break their silence and adopt a firm perspective on this. It’s undoubtedly the right moment for imposing new, stringent sanctions on Russia for its ongoing aggression,” he added.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun stated during a press briefing on August 28, emphasizing the need to avert any escalation and to avoid provoking further flames in the Ukraine conflict.
While backed by China, it has acknowledged its readiness to help broker a resolution. Mao Ning, another representative from the foreign ministry, expressed on August 22, “We propose that all parties adhere to a comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security concept to facilitate a political resolution of the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. We are eager to play a constructive role in this process.”
On the other hand, the Kremlin asserts its desire for peace but has ramped up air assaults and offensive movements along the frontline in recent weeks, dismissing calls for a ceasefire as it pushes for further territorial gains.
Community Reactions
Guo from the Chinese foreign ministry remarked at a briefing: “We call on all involved parties to adhere to the three key principles to prevent battlefield spillover, avoid escalation of hostilities, and refrain from exacerbating tensions. These principles are vital for de-escalating the situation and achieving conditions conducive to a political settlement of the crisis.”
Zelensky reiterated in his X post: “All previous deadlines have been ignored; numerous chances for diplomacy have gone unheeded. Russia must be held accountable for each strike, and for every day this war continues.”
Looking Ahead
Last week, Trump put forth a two-week deadline to gauge diplomatic progress, asserting that both sides will soon recognize “whether or not there is a possibility to resolve this or if this horrendous fighting will persist.”
Update, 8/28/25, 5 a.m. ET: This article has been updated to reflect new statements from the Chinese foreign ministry and the death toll updates related to the attacks in Kyiv.
