During a state visit to Beijing on Tuesday, Alexander Lukashenko, the president of Belarus and a close ally of Russia, will be closely observed for clues about China’s stance toward Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Despite China’s claim of neutrality in the conflict, U.S. officials have recently warned that China may be considering sending military aid to Russia. Beijing has denounced these allegations as a smear campaign and is committed to peace negotiations.
This visit highlights the strong ties between China and Lukashenko and Beijing’s relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin and his allies. Lukashenko’s government has been a staunch supporter of Moscow and allowed Belarus to be used as a base for the initial invasion of Ukraine a year ago. This stance has further isolated Lukashenko in Europe, where Belarus faces sanctions from the European Union due to its involvement in the war and the repression of domestic opposition.
In a recent interview, Lukashenko stated that the current situation is “unique” and presents an opportunity to end the conflict. This interview was initially released last week, and parts of it were reposted by Belarusian state media on Monday. There has not been any word from Chinese state media about Lukashenko’s arrival or activities in Beijing on Tuesday.
Beijing recently proposed a ceasefire and peace talks between Ukraine and Russia but has also maintained a “no-limits friendship” with Russia and declined to criticize Moscow’s invasion or even label it as such. China has accused the U.S. and NATO of escalating the conflict and condemned sanctions imposed on Russia and entities supporting its military efforts.
Chinese satellite imagery of Ukraine was provided to affiliates of Wagner Group, a privately owned military contractor owned by an associate of President Putin, by Spacety China last week. A subsidiary of Spacety China based in Luxembourg was also targeted. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said, “The United States has no right to criticize China-Russia relations. We will not submit to U.S. pressure and coercion.”
During Lukashenko’s visit to China, tensions between the U.S. and China have been heightened, with the latter being accused of violating human rights and engaging in unfair trade practices. The U.S. has imposed economic sanctions on China and tariffs on imports, further straining relations between the two nations.
This visit will also allow Lukashenko to strengthen his ties with China and seek support from one of the world’s largest economies. Despite facing sanctions from the EU, Lukashenko has shown a willingness to forge closer ties with non-Western nations and has sought to deepen Belarus’ relationship with China in recent years.
Lukashenko’s visit to Beijing will be a significant event regarding Belarus-China relations and China’s position on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The world will watch to see if China takes a more active role in resolving the crisis or if it maintains its neutral stance.
