Zelenskiy Rejects China as Mediator, Urges Pressure on Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy communicated his opposition to China acting as a mediator in the ongoing conflict with Russia, instead urging Beijing to apply pressure on Moscow to end the war. Zelenskiy also expressed openness to talks with Russia under certain conditions and highlighted the importance of restoring Ukraine's territorial integrity.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated on Wednesday that Kyiv does not want China to act as a mediator in its protracted 29-month conflict with Russia, but hopes that Beijing will exert more pressure on Moscow to bring the war to a conclusion.

In an interview with French media outlets, Zelenskiy emphasized Ukraine's commitment to restoring its 1991 post-Soviet borders, yet hinted at the possibility of initiating talks with Russia under favorable conditions before a complete troop withdrawal. He highlighted China's potential influence, likening it to the pressure applied by the United States and the European Union.

Zelenskiy pointed out that a truly just peace for Ukraine involves the recovery of its territorial integrity, which is not solely dependent on military means. His comments were a response to recent advancements by Russian forces, driven by various factors including delays in equipping Ukrainian brigades and limitations on weapon usage imposed by Western partners.

(With inputs from agencies.)