Beijing: China on Friday emphasized that extending the “Ukraine crisis” is detrimental to all parties involved and advocated for a swift resolution. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning, speaking at a news conference in Beijing, underscored China’s support for a political settlement to the crisis as soon as possible. She further stated that China will continue to “play a constructive role towards this end,” collaborating with the international community.

According to Anadolu Agency, China’s statement followed reports indicating that China had communicated to the European Union its opposition to Russia losing the war. It was reported that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi conveyed to EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas on Wednesday that Beijing does not favor a scenario where Russia is defeated in Ukraine. This stance is partly due to China’s concern about the potential shift in U.S. focus from Russia to China, as reported by the South China Morning Post.

Mao reiterated that “China is not a party to the Ukraine issue,” but emphasized that Beijing’s consistent position is to encourage peace and dialogue, alongside negotiations, ceasefires, and the establishment of peace.