The United States and South Korea have urged China to leverage its influence over Russia and North Korea to prevent further escalation following reports that Pyongyang has dispatched thousands of troops to aid Moscow in its conflict with Ukraine. Despite these calls, China has remained silent on the matter.
In a recent meeting, top U.S. diplomats engaged with China's ambassador to the United States to express concerns and encourage China to use its sway with North Korea to discourage the military cooperation. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized that the international community expects China to intervene and help curb these activities.
China's embassy in Washington reiterated its stance on the Ukraine crisis, emphasizing its commitment to peaceful negotiations and a political resolution. However, China has not publicly addressed the reported deployment of 8,000 North Korean soldiers near Ukraine's border to support Russia.
Experts suggest that while China has close ties with both Moscow and Pyongyang, it may not approve of the deepening military alliance between Russia and North Korea due to concerns about regional stability. Beijing aims for a peaceful Korean Peninsula and is reportedly displeased with the military partnership between Russia and North Korea.
Analysts point out that Chinese President Xi Jinping faces a delicate balancing act between supporting Russia and avoiding conflict with the West, especially as China's economy grapples with challenges. Xi's personal relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin adds complexity to China's response to the situation.
Amidst uncertainties about Beijing's prior knowledge of Pyongyang's actions, there are speculations about China's concerns regarding Russia's growing influence over North Korea. U.S. officials have engaged in discussions with Chinese counterparts to address these developments and urge China to question Russia's intentions in the conflict.
While some Chinese experts argue that China is not responsible for managing North Korea, others stress that the troop deployment is a bilateral matter between Russia and North Korea. China maintains its position against escalating the conflict and calls for restraint.
The evolving situation underscores the intricate diplomatic challenges facing China as it navigates its relationships with Russia, North Korea, and the international community.
