7-Hour US-China Talks... US Rewarns "Do Not Support Russia, Significant Consequences" (Comprehensive)

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] The Biden administration clearly delivered a warning message regarding Russia's invasion of Ukraine during a high-level US-China meeting that lasted an astonishing seven hours. This move comes after intelligence was obtained indicating that China is willing to provide military and economic support at Russia's request. Currently, the White House is also discussing the possibility of President Biden personally visiting Europe within weeks to consult on the Ukraine situation.

According to the Biden administration on the 14th (local time), Jake Sullivan, US National Security Advisor, and Yang Jiechi, member of the Political Bureau of the Chinese Communist Party, met in Rome, Italy, for about seven hours. A senior US official said in a briefing held immediately afterward, "We had extensive discussions on the issue of the Ukraine invasion and also discussed North Korea," adding, "(Regarding the Ukraine situation) we spoke directly about the implications of certain actions and the consequences that would follow", he explained.

Advisor Sullivan expressed deep concern over China's moves that appear to support Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He also strongly warned that if China supplies military equipment to Russia, it would be a greater historical mistake and a turning point in global politics. A US official conveyed the atmosphere, saying, "Reflecting not only the gravity of the current situation but also the commitment to maintain communication channels, we engaged in dense discussions for seven hours."

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki also stated in a briefing that "If China supports Russia, we will take action," and that China "knows there will be 'serious consequences.'"

US media outlets including CNN reported on the same day, citing multiple US officials, that China has already signaled its willingness to provide military and economic support to Russia. US intelligence agencies are said to have shared related information with NATO allies and some Asian countries. However, one source indicated that opinions are divided within the Chinese Communist Party leadership regarding Russia's request for support. Should China decide to support Russia, conflicts with the US and the West will inevitably escalate further.

The White House is also considering President Biden's visit to Europe. Currently, there is a possibility that he will visit Brussels, Belgium, where NATO headquarters is located, around the 24th to meet with European leaders. This would be his first visit since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. It is expected to express the US's firm commitment to NATO allies' defense and to unify Western efforts such as sanctions against Russia.

Professor Sung Wenti of the Australian National University’s Department of Political Science views the likelihood of China supplying military equipment to Russia as "low," stating, "It is too late to support the Ukraine war. It would be very detrimental to China and not worth it." Senior Fellow Haas of the Brookings Institution said he does not expect this meeting to create a breakthrough between the US and China.

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