US President Donald Trump has expressed his desire for China to assist in ending the Russia-Ukraine war, a move that could be seen as highly unlikely given China's close ties with Moscow.
Trump stated on board Air Force One that he would like China to help deal with Russia, suggesting a possible shift in US policy towards a more multipolar world. This statement comes amidst a difficult week for Ukraine, which has faced numerous setbacks including the refusal of the US to provide Tomahawk cruise missiles and EU leaders' reluctance to release frozen Russian cash.
Trump's comments appear to be driven by his growing frustration with Moscow over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. A summit between Trump and Putin in August failed to yield any tangible results, and the US president has become increasingly exasperated with Russia's actions.
China is considered a vital ally of Russia, with Beijing purchasing large quantities of Russian oil and providing military equipment. The two countries have strengthened their ties since Western sanctions were imposed on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. Putin and Xi Jinping have hailed their relationship as one with "no limits," highlighting China's willingness to cooperate with Moscow.
Trump's comments have raised eyebrows in the West, where Ukraine is seen as a key ally in the region. The Ukrainian president has called for increased support from Western nations in response to Russia's actions. With tensions simmering across Eastern Europe and Asia, Trump's words on Air Force One suggest that he is looking for an alternative solution to the conflict.
In a stark contrast, Beijing has consistently denied aiding Russia's war effort through its purchases of Russian oil or provision of dual-use materials. China's relationship with Russia remains strong, however, with both countries seeking greater influence in Asia and beyond.
As Trump embarks on his Asia tour, he will meet Xi Jinping in South Korea, where they are expected to discuss trade relations as well as the Ukraine conflict. While the details of their talks remain unclear, it is evident that US-China tensions over Taiwan and other issues will dominate the agenda.
The Russian dam on Ukraine's border has become a focal point for fears of flooding, prompting residents to evacuate. Ukraine's president has reiterated his country's need for increased support from its allies amid ongoing conflict with Russia.
Trump stated on board Air Force One that he would like China to help deal with Russia, suggesting a possible shift in US policy towards a more multipolar world. This statement comes amidst a difficult week for Ukraine, which has faced numerous setbacks including the refusal of the US to provide Tomahawk cruise missiles and EU leaders' reluctance to release frozen Russian cash.
Trump's comments appear to be driven by his growing frustration with Moscow over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. A summit between Trump and Putin in August failed to yield any tangible results, and the US president has become increasingly exasperated with Russia's actions.
China is considered a vital ally of Russia, with Beijing purchasing large quantities of Russian oil and providing military equipment. The two countries have strengthened their ties since Western sanctions were imposed on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. Putin and Xi Jinping have hailed their relationship as one with "no limits," highlighting China's willingness to cooperate with Moscow.
Trump's comments have raised eyebrows in the West, where Ukraine is seen as a key ally in the region. The Ukrainian president has called for increased support from Western nations in response to Russia's actions. With tensions simmering across Eastern Europe and Asia, Trump's words on Air Force One suggest that he is looking for an alternative solution to the conflict.
In a stark contrast, Beijing has consistently denied aiding Russia's war effort through its purchases of Russian oil or provision of dual-use materials. China's relationship with Russia remains strong, however, with both countries seeking greater influence in Asia and beyond.
As Trump embarks on his Asia tour, he will meet Xi Jinping in South Korea, where they are expected to discuss trade relations as well as the Ukraine conflict. While the details of their talks remain unclear, it is evident that US-China tensions over Taiwan and other issues will dominate the agenda.
The Russian dam on Ukraine's border has become a focal point for fears of flooding, prompting residents to evacuate. Ukraine's president has reiterated his country's need for increased support from its allies amid ongoing conflict with Russia.