On Friday, China’s foreign ministry firmly denied allegations made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who claimed that Beijing has been supplying weapons to Russia. The ministry described these accusations as “groundless.”
During a routine press briefing, Lin Jian, spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, stated, “China’s position on the Ukraine issue remains consistent and clear. We have worked actively for a ceasefire and to promote peace talks.” He further added, “China firmly opposes groundless accusations and political manipulation.”
Allegations of weapon supplies
On Thursday, Zelenskyy revealed that Ukraine’s intelligence and security services had obtained information indicating that China has been covertly providing weapons to Russia, including gunpowder and artillery. Expressing a sense of resignation, Zelenskyy remarked, “I cannot say we’re surprised. But we talked with the Chinese leader and he gave me his word that he won’t sell or give weapons to Russia. Unfortunately, we have facts and see the opposite information.”
China’s stance and relations with Russia
Since the commencement of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, China has maintained strong economic and political ties with Moscow. These relations have been characterized by a rise in bilateral trade, joint military exercises, and enhanced diplomatic cooperation through platforms such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS.
China has previously faced accusations of clandestinely supplying Russia with weapons and materials essential for drone production, while simultaneously reducing shipments of drones to Ukraine. Earlier this month, Ukrainian forces apprehended two Chinese nationals who were reportedly fighting alongside Russian troops in the Donetsk region. Despite these ongoing allegations, the Chinese government has consistently denied any direct involvement in the conflict, striving to position itself as a neutral party in the geopolitical landscape.