U.S. Ambassador Criticises China’s Support For Russia Amid Ukraine Conflict.

By Timibra Ken-Peretei

In a speech delivered in Shanghai, U.S. Ambassador to Beijing Nicholas Burns described China’s backing of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, particularly through the supply of technology for missiles and other weaponry, as a significant error. He emphasized that Russia’s ongoing invasion has escalated into a critical crisis for Europe.

Burns voiced concern over the substantial flow of components such as microprocessors and nitrocellulose from Chinese companies to reinforce Russia’s defense industrial base, characterizing it as undermining China’s longstanding principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. He noted that while China maintains it does not provide direct military aid to Russia, strong trade relations and high-level visits between Chinese and Russian leaders suggest otherwise.

China’s significant purchases of Russian oil and gas have provided essential support to Moscow’s economy amidst international sanctions. Before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, China and Russia signed an agreement pledging enduring friendship, although China has avoided labeling the invasion as such and has instead blamed NATO for provoking Russian President Vladimir Putin.

During a seminar on China-U.S. relations centered on the legacy of Henry Kissinger, Burns’ remarks drew attention for their criticism of Beijing’s actions undermining cultural and educational exchanges. He highlighted instances of Chinese authorities interrogating and intimidating citizens attending U.S.-organized events, tightening restrictions on the embassy’s social media posts, and stoking anti-American sentiment.

The Chinese foreign ministry promptly rebuked Burns’ comments, asserting that it is the U.S., not China, disrupting cultural and people-to-people exchanges between the two nations. Meanwhile, the State Department in Washington echoed Burns’ concerns, affirming its agreement with his assessment and criticizing China’s actions as damaging to bilateral relations.

Tensions between the U.S. and China persist over trade disputes, territorial claims, and the status of Taiwan, despite close political and military ties between Washington and Taipei. China continues to assert its claim over Taiwan, threatening severe repercussions for advocates of the island’s independence.