The United States has emphasized that China cannot strengthen its ties with Europe and other countries while simultaneously supporting Russia in its ongoing war against Ukraine. US State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel stated on Thursday that China “can’t have its cake and eat it too,” urging Beijing to choose between fostering relationships with the West and fueling the conflict in Ukraine.
“Fuelling Russia’s defence base as the PRC has not only threatened Ukrainian security, it threatens European security. Beijing can’t achieve better relations with Europe while continuing to support something like this,” Vedant Patel added. This position is shared by the G7, NATO, and EU partners.
The remarks come as Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing for a state visit. Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed his readiness to work with Vladimir Putin to enhance bilateral relations, marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Russia. Xi highlighted the importance of synergizing development strategies and enriching cooperation to benefit both nations.
Vladimir Putin’s visit was marked by a grand welcome, including a motorcade escorted by motorcyclists in ceremonial uniforms and a gun salute. The two leaders discussed plans for cooperation across various fields, emphasizing the role of China and Russia as permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and major emerging markets.
Earlier, Xi Jinping concluded a 5-day tour of Europe, visiting France, Serbia, and Hungary. The trip focused on promoting Beijing’s vision of a multipolar world and addressing trade tensions with the European Union. In France, Xi was welcomed with gifts and a visit to a childhood location of President Emmanuel Macron. In Serbia, President Aleksandar Vucic organized a grand welcome, with crowds chanting “China, China.”
Analysts suggest that Xi’s visit aimed to reduce US dominance and mitigate trade tensions with the EU, especially concerning European tariffs and a probe into Chinese subsidies for electric vehicles.
