Fact Check: China's envoy to Kyiv has done little in terms of diplomacy.

Fact Check: "China's envoy to Kyiv has done little in terms of diplomacy."

What We Know

China has been involved in diplomatic efforts regarding the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, particularly through its special envoy for Eurasian affairs, Li Hui. In May 2023, Li Hui visited Ukraine and met with key Ukrainian officials, including Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, to discuss a "political settlement" to the crisis (source). This visit followed a phone call between Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Zelenskyy, marking a significant moment in China’s engagement with Ukraine since the conflict escalated in 2022 (source).

China's official position on the conflict has emphasized the need for dialogue and negotiation, as reflected in its 12-point proposal for a political settlement released in February 2023 (source). However, the effectiveness and substance of these diplomatic efforts have been questioned. Critics argue that China's actions often appear to be more about maintaining a neutral image rather than taking concrete steps towards resolving the conflict (source).

Analysis

The claim that "China's envoy to Kyiv has done little in terms of diplomacy" can be evaluated from multiple angles. On one hand, Li Hui's visit to Ukraine and meetings with high-level officials demonstrate a level of engagement that could be construed as diplomatic efforts (source). However, the outcomes of these meetings have been described as largely reiterative of existing positions without significant advancements towards peace (source).

Moreover, China's broader diplomatic strategy has been criticized for lacking genuine commitment to resolving the conflict. For instance, while China promotes dialogue, it has also been accused of undermining international sanctions against Russia and maintaining a stance that aligns closely with Russian interests (source). This duality raises questions about the sincerity of China's diplomatic overtures.

The reliability of sources discussing China's diplomatic actions varies. The Chinese government’s statements often reflect a narrative that emphasizes its role as a neutral mediator, which may not fully capture the complexities of its geopolitical interests (source). In contrast, analyses from independent media and think tanks tend to provide a more critical perspective on China's motivations and the effectiveness of its diplomacy (source).

Conclusion

The verdict on the claim that "China's envoy to Kyiv has done little in terms of diplomacy" is Partially True. While there have been diplomatic engagements, such as Li Hui's visit and discussions with Ukrainian officials, the lack of substantive outcomes and the perception of China's motivations suggest that these efforts may not be as impactful as they appear. The dual nature of China's diplomacy—balancing its relationship with Russia while attempting to position itself as a mediator—complicates the assessment of its effectiveness in genuinely contributing to a resolution of the conflict.