Beijing Supports Renewed US-Russia Engagement
China has expressed support for renewed diplomatic engagement between the United States and Russia. The Chinese Foreign Ministry welcomed the planned meeting between President Donald Trump and President Vladimir Putin in Hungary, calling it a positive step toward peace in Ukraine.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated that Beijing backs all efforts promoting a peaceful settlement of the Ukraine crisis. He added that China is pleased to see Washington and Moscow maintaining contact to ease regional tensions.
Trump Confirms Talks with Putin
Trump announced on his platform, Truth Social, that he had a “productive” phone call with Putin. Both leaders agreed to meet in Budapest within the next two weeks.
This summit will take place shortly after Trump meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Washington, where he plans to brief Zelensky on his conversation with Putin.
Experts Cautious but Hopeful
Analysts say the planned meeting marks another significant high-level contact between the two powers, following their dialogue in Anchorage, Alaska, two months earlier.
However, experts caution that while the talks may help explore limited solutions to the prolonged conflict, a breakthrough remains unlikely due to entrenched territorial disputes.
Room for Small-Scale Compromises
Wang Xiaoquan of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences noted that both sides remain unwilling to make large concessions. Still, he believes there is space for small-scale compromises or temporary truces. He added that holding the meeting in Europe shows a shared desire to create a better diplomatic atmosphere for future progress.
Support from Hungary and Continued Chinese Role
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán hailed the upcoming summit as “great news for peace-loving people worldwide.”
Reaffirming its position, China emphasised its commitment to neutrality and constructive engagement. At the UN Security Council in September, China’s Deputy Permanent Representative Geng Shuang called for an immediate ceasefire and political dialogue. He said China stands ready to work with the international community to help end the conflict through peaceful means.
Related stories:
China Reaffirms Neutral Stance on Ukraine Security Guarantees
