Zelenskyy and Xi Speak for the First Time Since Russia’s Invasion

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke over the phone Wednesday in their first direct conversation since the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. 

Zelenskyy’s Remarks: Zelenskyy said the call lasted for about an hour and involved “a full range of topical issues of bilateral relations. Particular attention was paid to the ways of possible cooperation to establish a just and sustainable peace for Ukraine.” However, Zelenskyy added, “There can be no peace at the expense of territorial compromises.” 

Xi’s Remarks: A statement from Xi said China was “neither the creator nor a party to the Ukraine crisis,” adding, “As a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council and a responsible great power, we would not watch idly by, we would not add fuel to the fire, and above all we would not profiteer from this”

For Context: The call came amid growing diplomatic activity by China, which has called for peace talks after taking a purportedly neutral stance on the war and criticizing Western sanctions against Russia. China’s Foreign Ministry said Wednesday it would send an envoy to Ukraine to “conduct in-depth communication” and work towards a potential political settlement. Additionally, China reaffirmed its support of ex-Soviet countries’ sovereignty on Tuesday after its ambassador to France questioned their status under international law. 

How the Media Covered It: While coverage was generally nonpartisan, it was also less common in right-rated media.