Written By Lisa Murimi
China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi has rebuffed NATO’s allegations of Beijing aiding Russia in the Ukraine war, calling them “groundless.”
In a call with Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp, Wang criticized NATO’s statements, which came after a meeting of NATO leaders in Washington DC.
NATO accused China of being a “decisive enabler” of Russia, citing large-scale support for Russia’s defense industry.
The alliance called on China to cease all material and political support for Russia, including the supply of dual-use materials. The US estimates that a significant portion of Russia’s imported machine tools and microelectronics now come from China.
Western nations have previously accused China of providing drone and missile technology and satellite imagery to Moscow. Additionally, Beijing faces accusations of engaging in cyber and hybrid activities against NATO states.
Wang Yi dismissed these claims, asserting that China has always been a force for peace and stability. He urged NATO to avoid inciting confrontation based on differing political systems and values.
China’s official stance maintains neutrality in the conflict, calling for an end to the hostilities and proposing a peace plan, which Ukraine has rejected.
Despite Beijing’s rebuttals, observers note that China’s extensive purchases of Russian oil and gas have bolstered Russia’s economy amid sanctions. Meanwhile, China accuses the West of exacerbating the conflict by supplying Ukraine with weapons.
This exchange marks the latest in a series of sharp responses from Beijing, highlighting the tense geopolitical climate surrounding the Ukraine conflict.
