Part 7/14:
Xi Jinping’s phone call with Ukrainian President Zelensky in April generated cautious optimism, but Ukrainian skepticism has grown over time. Many Ukrainians initially held hope that China could help mediate, but disillusionment has set in as Beijing’s neutrality appeared shaky. The lack of tangible concessions or pressures on Russia has led to doubts about China’s sincerity or ability to influence Moscow.
Meanwhile, Chinese diplomacy has experienced some successes elsewhere, such as brokering a historic peace agreement between Iran and Saudi Arabia in March. This breakthrough signifies China’s growing diplomatic stature in the Middle East and suggests a willingness to engage in regional conflicts traditionally dominated by Western powers.