Lin Jian Photo: Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian refrained from the traditional criticism of the United States for providing Ukraine with long-range ATACMS missiles to strike Russian territory. In his comments at a briefing on Monday, 18 November, Lin expressed Beijing’s position, focusing on the importance of a quick cessation of hostilities and the search for a political settlement of the conflict, Ukrinform reports.
“The most important thing now is to help cool down the situation as soon as possible. It is in the interests of all parties to cease fire and hostilities as soon as possible and seek a political settlement,” the diplomat said.
This time, the Chinese side refrained from the usual statements that the United States was “adding fuel to the fire” of war by transferring weapons to Ukraine. Lin Jian, however, reiterated Beijing’s official position that China always supports efforts aimed at a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
“China is ready to continue to play a constructive role in the political settlement of the ‘Ukrainian crisis’ in its own way,” he added, stressing support for peace initiatives.
It should also be noted that The New York Times recently cited sources as saying that US President Joe Biden had for the first time allowed Ukraine to use ATACMS missiles to strike Russia. This step was a response to Russia’s decision to engage North Korean troops in combat.
