A Chinese View on the Ukraine Conflict
An analysis of the Chinese government's position on the crisis in Ukraine, as conveyed in one of their recently released position papers.
As global tensions shift eastward, China has departed from its typical posture of neutrality. In a recent document entitled "China's Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukrainian Crisis," the Chinese government takes a condescending tone, as if annoyed at having to publicly declare the most basic concepts of diplomacy to nations that claim to be models of democratic civilization.
Despite having been released nearly two weeks ago, the Chinese government's recent position paper on the Ukrainian crisis has received little, if any, coverage in the media. Speculation as to why Americans are not being informed about this issue will be discussed in a future article. For now, it is crucial to provide the public with the information that has been kept from them, particularly when it comes to matters of national security. It is evident that a military alliance between China and Russia has the potential to drastically alter the United States' global position.
The West should be prepared for the potential consequences of China and Russia's military alliance. It's crucial that the West avoids complacency and remains vigilant in the face of these changes, as history has shown that no empire is immune to decline. These are the document’s key takeaways:
Respecting the Sovereignty of All Countries
The document begins with this fundamental principle of diplomacy before going on to denounce the obvious double standards that characterize international relations today. If we are to practice true diplomacy we must make an earnest attempt to at least understand outside interests that contradict our own. A lack of fundamental understanding weaponizes constructive communication, destroying any hope of peaceful resolution. The given definition of diplomacy aligns with the same principles enshrined in international law and the UN Charter.
Rejecting the Cold War Mentality
The paper specifically calls for the Security of the "Eurasian continent" and denounces the "cold war mentality" characterized by some nations pursuing security at the expense of others through the strengthening of military blocs. This signal from China is a likely indication of their anticipation for how the situation will unfold in the future, particularly in relation to the United States."
Pursuing a Political Solution
The paper stresses the need for a political rather than military solution to avoid further violence and civilian casualties. China states intentions to play a constructive role in creating conditions for negotiations to resume, and supports the peaceful exchange of prisoners of war while urging the evacuation of civilians in danger.
Prohibiting the Weaponization of Nuclear Technology
The document reminds the international community that attacks on nuclear power plants are prohibited under international law and calls for the Atomic Energy Agency to assist in maintaining the security of nuclear facilities. The use of biological and chemical weapons by any country for any reason is also denounced. Although some may consider the admonition hypocritical, it is nonetheless an appropriate and necessary sentiment given the grave threat that such weapons pose to humanity.
Reducing the Global Impact of the Conflict
The paper recognizes the global impact of the Ukrainian conflict, particularly on food shortages around the world, and urges countries to maintain the operability of Ukrainian trade-ports to mitigate effects on trade. In addition, the document strongly condemns the misuse of sanctions and underscores the importance of implementing them only with the authorization of the United Nations. While the paper does not explicitly state whether China would provide military aid or weapons to Russia, it is clear that China acknowledges its shared interests and concerns with Russia and its allies, as evidenced by the recent visit of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko to Beijing.
In the face of numerous geopolitical challenges, the Chinese government's approach to the conflict in Ukraine underscores the importance of diplomacy in fostering peace and stability. Choosing moral posturing over constructive engagement can have far-reaching consequences, leaving us to wonder who will bear the brunt of these repercussions.
-The Shultz Report from M. Shultz