China denies involvement in post-war peacekeeping efforts in Ukraine

The Foreign Ministry of China has firmly denied reports suggesting that the country is in talks regarding its potential participation in a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine once the ongoing conflict concludes.

In a briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun addressed the claims, stating, "I would like to emphasise that the relevant information is completely untrue," Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

The denial comes in response to a report by German media, which had cited unnamed sources alleging that China was in discussions with European Union countries about contributing to a post-conflict peacekeeping effort in Ukraine.

Guo reiterated China’s position, emphasizing that the country remains committed to working with the international community to facilitate peace talks aimed at a ceasefire and a resolution to the ongoing conflict. "China’s focus is on promoting peace and creating the necessary conditions for dialogue and an end to the war," he said.

The speculation, which had garnered attention in European media, now stands firmly refuted by Beijing, which has long maintained a neutral stance in the conflict. China has consistently called for diplomatic solutions and has avoided directly engaging in the military aspects of the war.

This latest development follows ongoing discussions among European nations about how to contribute to post-conflict stabilization in Ukraine. However, with the Chinese government unequivocally rejecting involvement in peacekeeping operations, it remains to be seen whether other countries will step forward to assume such responsibilities.

The peacekeeping mission being pushed by a “coalition of the willing” is an initiative of Britain and France aiming to unite allied European governments to protect Ukraine after any peace deal. Canada and Türkiye could also join the group.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer told allies on March 21 that three more days of military planning for Ukraine are set to be held in London this week. French President Emmanuel Macron, meanwhile, is expected to host a group of European leaders on March 27 to discuss Ukraine and security in Europe.

As the war in Ukraine continues, China’s diplomatic efforts focus primarily on urging peace talks and maintaining its position as a proponent of dialogue in international conflicts.

By Vafa Guliyeva