Insights on China's peace plans

In recent months, both European and American aid to Ukraine has surged. Furthermore, with many European nations meeting their defense funding obligations, even Trump is touting his influence in making Europe contribute. Moreover, discussions are underway for a joint EU-US policy on seizing or indefinitely freezing Russian assets. This suggests that China's strategy of dividing the EU and the US may be at risk.

Furthermore, recent espionage scandals in France, Britain, and Germany have eroded trust in China as an economic partner. For instance, Italy has withdrawn from the new Silk Road project, and Germany is reducing its engagements with China. Instead, the EU is enhancing its collaboration with India. These developments have undermined the credibility of business leaders and politicians advocating extensive cooperation with China.

China's political agents mirror Russia's when it comes to right-wing radical anti-democratic movements. Their objective is to undermine the influence of democracy and Western values within the West itself. Due to the game between China and Russia, doubts about the economic benefits of partnering with China in the EU are growing. Consequently, China's credibility is rapidly diminishing. Moreover, the situation in Asia poses additional challenges for China.

Last week, a crucial security forum took place in Singapore where the United States adopted a firm stance against Chinese aggression in the South China Sea. The US Department of Defense assured the Philippines (the primary potential target of Chinese aggression in the region alongside Taiwan) of its full support. Furthermore, President Zelenskyy met with the President of the Philippines, specifically addressing the shared threats faced by their countries.

China now aims to achieve several goals

Firstly, China wants to be seen as important as Europe and the US, even though this is an exaggeration. To make this believable, China needs support from the "global South".

Secondly, China aims to create disagreements among Western allies who are uniting around Ukraine. They might exploit differences on the Ukrainian topic, possibly through politicians like Orban.

Thirdly, China wants to stop the US from increasing its presence in Southeast Asia. To do this, China plans to keep pressure on the Philippines and Taiwan while securing its trade route through the Strait of Malacca.

Lastly, China wants to avoid facing sanctions for supporting Russia.

Trying to play the role of peacemaker serves all of China's goals. It lets China appear influential in the "Ukrainian crisis," as they call the war. It also gives Orban a free pass. By showing a "willingness to talk," China suggests it's open to compromise if its demands are met. This directly signals to Taiwan and the Philippines. Plus, it doesn't seem to give any grounds for sanctions.

To bolster their position, they teamed up with the far-left Brazilian leader, Lula. He joined because Brazil's leadership, led by its socialist president, is under threat from Argentine President Miles, who holds opposing views both ideologically and on the Ukrainian topic. Additionally, Brazil is facing economic difficulties, and Lula needs some wins.

Considering the above, China's attempts to promote peace shouldn't be seen as sincere efforts. They can't be trusted at all. It's great that the Foreign Ministry of Ukraine and President Zelenskyy are openly saying this.

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About the author. Yuriy Bohdanov, publicist, specialist in strategic communications in business, public administration and politics

The editors do not always share the opinions expressed by the authors of the blogs.