China: "The United States Must Address Russia's Legitimate Security Concerns"

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyemin] Amid rapidly escalating tensions surrounding Ukraine, China emphasized to the United States that "Russia's legitimate and reasonable security concerns must be respected and addressed."

Wang Wenbin, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated at a regular briefing on the 17th in response to a question about the U.S. continuously mentioning the possibility of a Russian invasion of Ukraine, "Spreading false information to provoke tension does not help resolve the Ukraine issue."

This is interpreted as accepting Russia's concerns about NATO's eastward expansion and urging the halt of Ukraine's pursuit of NATO membership.

Spokesperson Wang said, "Inciting collective confrontation and wielding the big stick of sanctions only hinders dialogue and negotiations," adding, "A constructive role must be played in politically resolving the Ukraine issue."

He also added that China supports efforts consistent with the new Minsk Agreement. This refers to the agreement signed in 2015 between the Ukrainian government and the pro-Russian separatist rebels in the eastern Donbas region, which declared separation and independence. The agreement includes recognition of special status, including autonomy for the Donbas region, and is regarded as a pact that guarantees Russia's continued influence over Ukraine.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.