China, Russia issue joint statement on Ukraine following Xi Jinping, Putin meeting

Russian media outlet Meduza reported that Beijing and Moscow issued a joint statement on Ukraine. 

The statement said that the countries oppose the “prolongation” of the war in Ukraine and believe that it should not enter an “uncontrolled phase.”

“The parties emphasize the need to stop any steps that contribute to the prolongation of hostilities and further escalation of the conflict, call for preventing its transition to an uncontrolled phase, and emphasize the importance of dialogue as the best form of resolving the Ukrainian crisis,” the statement reads.

At the same time, Russia positively assesses China's “unbiased position” that conflicts “should be resolved on the basis of the UN Charter.” The statement emphasizes that in order to resolve the situation, it is necessary to eliminate its “root causes,” but does not specify what exactly this means. 

Earlier, at a press conference with Putin, Xi said that China and Russia believe that only a political settlement of the war in Ukraine, which Beijing calls the “Ukrainian crisis,” is right, Ukrinform reports. 

“China's position on this has always been clear and consistent. (...) The Chinese side hopes for the speedy restoration of peace and stability on the European continent and is ready to continue to play its constructive role in this regard,” he said. 

The Chinese leader added that the settlement should adhere to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries. In addition, it is necessary to take into account the legitimate security concerns of all parties, as well as to build a balanced, effective and sustainable security architecture.

Earlier, Radio Liberty reported that following the talks, Putin and Xi signed a statement on deepening relations of comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation.

“They did not mention the war in Ukraine, and there was no direct criticism of the West,” the report said.

Instead, the Russian leader said that relations between Moscow and Beijing are not directed against anyone. Putin also called China Russia's main economic partner.

The talks were held in a “restricted format.” Among the participants from Russia’s side were Security Council Chairman Sergei Shoigu and the new head of the military department Andrei Belousov. They have repeatedly praised Chinese peace initiatives.

The Russian propaganda outlet TASS reported that during the meeting, Putin described relations with China as “Russian and Chinese” being “eternal brothers.”

“I am confident that it is in this fraternal spirit that we will continue to strengthen the harmonious Russian-Chinese partnership,” the Kremlin leader said.

On Wednesday evening, May 15, Russian leader Vladimir Putin arrived in China. There he met with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Putin's visit was reported by the Russian media outlet Meduza.

Putin is scheduled to visit Beijing and Harbin on May 16-17. In the Chinese capital, he will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Personal talks are planned, as well as a meeting with a broader group.

“The most important thing in China is to have tea face-to-face,” said Putin's aide Yuri Ishakov.

Putin was accompanied by representatives of the newly reformed Russian “government” and “businessmen.” This is the first international trip of the Russian leader after the so-called inauguration.

• On May 15, Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin said that Russia was “open to dialogue on Ukraine,” but that the interests of both sides should be taken into account. Ukraine considers it “bargaining.”