Ukraine, the Chinese opening: “When necessary, ready to mediate”. But “rock solid” friendship with Russia

BEIJING – “China is ready to continue to play a constructive role to facilitate dialogue for peace and work alongside the international community, when necessary, to carry out the necessary mediation,” said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Adding that China will send humanitarian aid to Ukraine through the Red Cross. Small adjustments, perhaps a few glimmers (it is the first time that Beijing has evoked mediation, “when necessary”, a term that is still vague, and says it wants to send aid) immediately counterbalanced, however, by the emphasis on the special relationship between Beijing and Moscow.