Ukraine urges China to play ‘critical’ role for peace as war enters fifth year
South China Morning Post
by Laura Zhou,Orange WangFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Ukraine’s top envoy in China has urged Beijing to play a pivotal role in ending the war in Ukraine, which marks its fourth year since Russia’s invasion. Speaking at an event in Beijing to commemorate the anniversary, Ukrainian Ambassador Olexander Nechytaylo emphasized that China’s unique position and influence make it “critically important” for fostering peace. He called on international partners, including China, to seize the opportunity for resolution and work together to achieve a sustainable end to the conflict.
The ambassador highlighted the ongoing efforts by Ukraine and its international allies to promote peace, stressing that China’s involvement is essential due to its diplomatic ties with both Russia and Ukraine. Nechytaylo also addressed the growing urgency of the situation, urging all parties to avoid further escalation and focus on dialogue. His remarks were echoed by European Union Ambassador Jorge Toledo, who described the war as an “existential watershed moment” for Europe and reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s call for a ceasefire.
The event underscored the shifting dynamics in international diplomacy, with China now being seen as a key player in mediating the conflict. While Beijing has historically maintained neutrality, the gravity of the situation and its strategic relations with both Russia and Ukraine position it uniquely to influence the outcome. As the war enters its fifth year, the stakes for global stability have never been higher, making China’s potential role in peacemaking a critical focus of international attention.
This development matters because it highlights the growing interconnectedness of global conflicts and the need for major powers like China to take on greater responsibility in resolving them. The outcome of Ukraine’s appeal could set a precedent for how nations approach similar crises in the future, making this a pivotal moment in international relations. With the world watching, the success or failure of these diplomatic efforts will have far-reaching implications for global security and stability.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/24/2026