In China's view, what's happening in Ukraine is neither a war nor an invasion but a complex "situation." That was the word used by Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday as he announced that Beijing was willing to mediate, reports Reuters. "Three feet of ice does not form in a single day," said Wang, citing a traditional Chinese expression as he spoke about the "complex" causes of the conflict. More:
- Strong ties: Wang made clear that Beijing views Russia as a strong ally. In fact, he described Moscow as China's “most important strategic partner," per the AP. He also stuck with China's policy of not criticizing Russia's actions in Ukraine. "The friendship between the two peoples is ironclad," he said, adding that no matter what happens, the "China-Russia partnership" will endure.