When Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Russia, souvenir shops in the capital Moscow launched "Russian dolls" in the shape of the two heads of state.

(European News Agency)

[Compilation of Chen Chengliang/Comprehensive Report] Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Moscow today (20th) at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin for a visit. Foreign media pointed out that Xi Jinping’s trip to establish a mediating image is mainly aimed at sowing dissension between the United States and Europe country; while Russia is increasingly dependent on China in the face of Western sanctions, Xi’s influence over Putin remains limited.

In an article published on the 19th, Putin welcomed China's willingness to play a constructive role in resolving the Ukrainian crisis, but the Wall Street Journal pointed out that even if Russia's current situation makes it increasingly dependent on China, China may not be able to strongly influence Moscow.

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In addition, Russia's unpredictable actions have caused uneasiness in China. For example, in September last year, Moscow leaked the footage of Li Zhanshu, then chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, speaking in support of Russia. A few days ago, he made his first visit to Malipo, a city of Udong port occupied by the Russian army, and all his actions aroused suspicion in China.

The article stated that the relationship between the United States and China is tense due to the spy balloon incident, and the Xi-Pu meeting may also make it more difficult for US Secretary of State Blinken to revisit China.

However, any move by China to alienate Moscow may trigger a strong reaction from Russia, and China also needs to work with Russia to defend against Western threats.

In these senses, China does not hold absolute initiative in Russia-China relations, and these will be challenges for China to fulfill its role as a "peaceful mediator".

The "New York Times" pointed out that even though Chinese officials regard this trip as their "peaceful mission", European and American officials are concerned about whether Xi Jinping will "fuel the flames" of the Russia-Ukraine war.

According to the article, some U.S. officials said that China is still considering whether to provide weapons to Russia, and mentioned that White House spokesman John Kirby said on the 17th that the current ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine is equivalent to giving Putin an advantage, and in fact it recognizes Russia’s occupation of Ukraine. territory, China can present itself as a peacemaker.

The article also mentioned that President of the European Commission von der Leyen once said that China's position is by no means neutral.

Analysts believe that the peace statement issued by China in February in the Russia-Ukraine war was actually in the name of "not supporting Russia, but supporting peace" to confuse the international audience. Energy demand benefit considerations.

Deutsche Welle (DW) quoted experts and pointed out that China's attempt to establish itself as a mediator in global conflicts is only superficial, and the bigger intention is to sow discord between the United States and European countries.

Velina Tchakarova, director of the "Austrian Institute for European and Security Policy" (AIES), believes that China is trying to use the reputation it has gained from mediating the resumption of diplomatic relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia, and then push Russia and Ukraine to at least resume negotiations to raise hope, so that China Eager to visit Russia.

She said China and Russia intended to use the visit to reinforce anti-Western and anti-American discourse while demonstrating close ties, which are crucial for Beijing as they aim to strengthen ties with many countries that criticize the United States.

And despite Beijing's attempts to present its peaceful image, experts pointed out that China has not publicly condemned Russia's actions in the war. Obviously, China's position on the conflict between Russia and Ukraine has not changed. It tried to persuade Russia and Ukraine to negotiate peace but did not call on Russia to withdraw its troops. It is a clear proof that China cannot become a mediator.