China can no longer mediate in Ukraine war due to its "pro-Russian neutrality" - Borrell

Borrell made the statement during a discussion at the European Security and Defense Summit, Ukrinform reports.

The EU's top diplomat noted that China is both an important trading partner and competitor in the economy and an adversary in values for the EU.

Borrell stated that the focus should not be on halting China's transformation, but rather on persuading China to employ its influence in a constructive manner that aligns with international law.

Emphasizing the important role of China in the world, he stressed that although Beijing has a great influence on Moscow and can help stop aggression, it has already lost the opportunity to play the role of mediator, because its "neutrality" was rather pro-Russian.

Borrell stated that while China indeed backs Russia, it has refrained from extending military aid thus far. Caution must be exercised to prevent inadvertently aligning Russia more closely with China. However, Borrell believes that China does not feel entirely at ease with the ongoing events in Russia.

• The foreign ministers of Germany and France demand that China make a decision on the war in Ukraine and influence Russia.