White House National Security Council Strategic Communications Coordinator John Kirby evaluated the latest situation in the region after China announced a 12-point proposal for a ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine War. Noting that Beijing’s call to stop the war in Ukraine sounds reasonable, Kirby stated that this situation may lead to the legitimization of the lands occupied by Russia in Ukraine. Defining Russia as a country that conquered its neighbor’s lands, Kirby said, “Adopting a ceasefire in Ukraine confirms Russia’s conquest. Thus, Russia’s gains and attempts to conquer its neighbor’s lands will be recognized. Russia will use this ceasefire to consolidate its positions in Ukraine and to strengthen its military “Russia can use the ceasefire as leverage to attack again at a time of its own choosing. To put it bluntly, this is not a step we believe in for a just and lasting peace,” he said.
CHINA CALLS TO END THE WAR
On February 24, 2023, the 1st year of the Ukraine-Russia war, a 12-item document containing China’s stance on the Ukraine crisis was published by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The document titled “China’s Attitude Towards a Political Solution to the Ukraine Crisis” underlined that peace negotiations are the only viable way to resolve the Ukrainian crisis. In the document, which called for steps to be taken to prevent the situation in Ukraine from getting out of control, it was emphasized that Beijing opposes the use of nuclear weapons and sanctions, and supports a ceasefire and negotiations. The document, which drew attention to the importance of adhering to international law, including the United Nations (UN) charter, stated that “the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of all countries must be strictly protected”.
“All parties should act rationally and with restraint, avoid fueling the fire and escalating tensions, and prevent the crisis from getting worse and getting out of control,” the document said. (UAV)