Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has invited Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit the country to discuss a peace plan aimed at ending the conflict with Russia. The move is seen as an attempt by Ukraine to benefit from the cracks appearing in the China-Russia alliance and engage with a major power.
Invitation to Xi Jinping
According to local media reports, Zelenskyy invited Xi to visit Ukraine to discuss the peace plan proposed by the Chinese president. It is not clear if an invitation has been officially extended to Xi, or if he would accept if one were received. However, the move indicates that Ukraine is looking to explore new avenues for resolving the ongoing conflict.
Ukraine Looks to Benefit from Cracks in China-Russia Alliance
Zelenskyy’s invitation to China’s leader could help Ukraine benefit from the growing tension between China and Russia. While the two countries renewed their pact of cooperation last year, there are signs of strains in their relationship. The US has warned that China may be preparing to arm Russia, a claim that China denied. Additionally, Russia’s Putin broke an agreement signed only days before with China, which may indicate that the visit was not good for Russia.
Zelenskyy’s Efforts to Rally Soldiers and Communities
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy recently embarked on a 48-hour train trip across Ukraine, visiting soldiers on the front lines and communities caught in the crossfire. He aims to motivate and reassure soldiers and keep communities focused on the harsh realities of war. Zelenskyy is concerned that outside of the front lines, both Ukrainians and the world are becoming numb to the daily realities of the conflict.
During his travels, Zelenskyy acknowledged the arbitrary nature of threats that many Ukrainians face. His itinerary is kept secret, and he maintained a cautious approach due to security concerns. Zelenskyy is a regular presence at international events and has used his celebrity to rally support for Ukraine. He also acknowledged the emotional and physical stress and suffering the war has caused, but expressed gratitude for the growth and maturity Ukraine has experienced as a nation.
Warning About Russian Advances in Bakhmut
Despite Ukrainian forces fiercely resisting Russia’s invasion in Bakhmut, Zelenskyy warns that if troops fail to hold off Russian advances, Moscow may seek international backing for a peace deal. Bakhmut holds little strategic value, but the Kremlin may spin complete control as major military success. Reviving dialogue with China could play a key role in the resolution of the conflict, which has refused to condemn the war in Ukraine.
Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Russian President Vladimir Putin during a state visit to Moscow last week, showing no signs of progress in ending the war. Zelenskyy wants to speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping to find a solution to the conflict.
In conclusion, by reaching out to China’s President Xi Jinping, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is exploring new avenues for resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia. While it remains to be seen if China will accept this invitation, it highlights Ukraine’s desire to benefit from tensions in the China-Russia relationship and engage with a major power. Additionally, Zelenskyy’s efforts to visit soldiers and communities in the conflict zone show his dedication to rallying support for Ukraine during these turbulent times.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
