The Chinese Position on the Russian–Ukrainian WarAssistant Lecturer. Roaa Jabbar Tawfeeq Abdullah

Abstract

This study analyzes China's position on the Russia–Ukraine war (2022–2025) from a contemporary political perspective, examining the evolution of Sino-Russian relations since the Cold War, the determinants of China's foreign policy, and China's role in the contemporary international system. The research focuses on China's concept of active strategic neutrality, which combines refraining from direct involvement in the conflict with proactive diplomacy to achieve a political settlement, while safeguarding its economic and commercial interests in the region. The study highlights China's efforts to strengthen strategic partnerships and balance economic and political interests by leveraging opportunities created by the crisis, such as increasing energy imports from Russia, expanding influence in the international financial system, and participating in multilateral initiatives through international organizations like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the BRICS group. The research concludes that China's position reflects its continuous endeavor to assert itself as a responsible great power capable of managing international crises and promoting global stability, while maintaining economic relations with both the West and Russia, positioning China as a key actor in shaping a multipolar international order.