In a move that could reshape the dynamics of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, China is considering joining the "coalition of the willing" aimed at establishing peacekeeping forces in the war-torn nation. This development has emerged as a topic of significant discussion among European diplomats, particularly with the anticipated summit in Paris on March 27, 2025. At the heart of these discussions is the belief that China's involvement could alter Russia's stance toward accepting peacekeeping operations in Ukraine.
According to Die Welt, which reported on March 11, 2025, Chinese diplomats have reached out to European Union officials expressing interest in participating in the peacekeeping forces. The report, citing sources within European diplomatic circles, noted that the situation is delicate. The inclusion of China is speculated to potentially increase Russia's acceptance of such forces—a thought that both eases concerns and raises eyebrows among international observers.
As China positions itself as a neutral entity amid conflict, it remains a crucial ally of the Kremlin, a fact underscored by recent military exercises with Russia and Iran in the Gulf of Oman. Should China formally join the coalition, it could signify a significant shift in global alignments related to the Ukraine war. However, the Kremlin has historically resisted any foreign military presence in Ukraine, dampening hopes of a straightforward resolution.
The upcoming Paris summit will feature key leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Macron and Starmer have both signaled readiness to deploy peacekeeping troops if a ceasefire agreement between Moscow and Kyiv is reached. Macron's office stated, "We are prepared to act decisively, alongside our allies, to ensure peace and security in Eastern Europe. These discussions are vital to de-escalate the ongoing tensions."
The British government anticipates that more than 30 nations might join the endeavor, further illustrating the international community's commitment to resolving the crisis. Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has also indicated that Turkey is prepared to contribute troops to the peacekeeping efforts, showcasing a willingness to engage actively in regional security.
The coalition, comprising countries led by the UK and France, aims to provide security assurances to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire with Russia. This coalition could potentially enhance Ukraine's military capabilities and bolster its negotiating power in talks with Moscow. However, the Russian government has vehemently opposed any ideas regarding the presence of European or NATO forces within Ukraine's borders.
Despite the delicate nature of these diplomatic maneuvers, the support from China could serve as a stabilizing force if properly calibrated. The complexities surrounding China's role were succinctly articulated by a diplomatic source in the EU, who noted, "Including China in the 'coalition of the willing' could potentially increase Russia's acceptance of peacekeeping forces in Ukraine.” This apprehensive consideration reflects the intricate balance of alliances at play.
The delicate balancing act for China is underscored by its need to maintain a semblance of neutrality in the eyes of the international community while simultaneously reaffirming its allegiance to Russia as a strategic ally. While Beijing engages in outreach to demonstrate its diplomatic intent, it remains to be seen how much leverage it might possess in influencing Moscow's decisions, especially regarding military ties.
As the summit draws closer, leaders such as Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk are set to engage with their European counterparts, including Macron, to solidify strategies moving forward. At a recent press conference, Tusk remarked, "We are scheduled to have discussions in Paris ahead of the summit, aiming to unify our approach towards ensuring stability in the region. Poland remains committed to this dialogue.”
In this intricate web of alliances and negotiations, peace seems tantalizingly close yet perilously out of reach. The ongoing dialogue surrounding China's potential role may pave the way for creative solutions in the quest for lasting peace and security in Ukraine. With so many countries poised to take action, the international community is watching closely, holding its collective breath for a breakthrough that could finally bring an end to the hostilities.
