China Defends Economic Ties with Russia, Denies Military Support at UN Security Council
China has rejects accusations of supporting Russia’s military operations in Ukraine and defended its economic ties with Moscow, stating that it maintains trade relations with both Russia and Ukraine within the bounds of international law. This was the message conveyed by Chinese envoy Geng Shuang during a UN Security Council session held on Thursday.
The accusations against Beijing align with an escalating series of deadlines set by U.S. President Donald Trump. Last month, Trump gave Russia 50 days to withdraw from Ukraine, followed by a reduced deadline of just 10 days this week. On Wednesday, he set August 8 as the final date. These warnings have been accompanied by sanctions, including a 25% tariff imposed on India for purchasing Russian arms and energy.
The United States claimed to the Security Council that China had become Russia’s “most important supplier” for its military campaign. Beijing strongly refuted these claims, describing them as “false” and “completely unacceptable.” Geng reiterated China’s neutrality, asserting that Beijing is neither a starter nor a participant in the conflict, and has not supplied lethal weapons to either side. Furthermore, he stated that China strictly regulates the export of dual-use goods, including drones.
Geng maintained that China’s trade with Russia and Ukraine is consistent with international law and obligations. Pointing out that neither country is under UN sanctions, he stated, “China maintains normal trade with Russia and Ukraine, and has not violated international law or international obligations.”
Warning against infringement on China’s legitimate rights, Geng suggested hypocrisy in U.S. policies: “To this day, the US still maintains trade with Russia. Why is it that the US is not allowing other countries to do what it is doing?”
Positioning itself as a champion of peace, China argued for a political resolution to the conflict at a “critical juncture.” Geng condemned the continued supply of weapons to the battlefield, asserting they served only to prolong the fighting without influencing the conflict’s outcome. This stance echoes Moscow’s long-held position on the matter.
This statement from China comes amidst heightened geopolitical tensions surrounding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. As the situation continues to evolve, the economic and diplomatic dynamics between major world powers will remain under close scrutiny.
