Xi Advocates for Olympic Truce as Macron and von der Leyen Seek Influence Over Ukraine Conflict

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for a global ceasefire during the upcoming Paris Olympic Games, aligning with French President Emmanuel Macron’s vision of an “Olympic truce.” This appeal comes amid Macron’s efforts to leverage Xi’s influence on Russia to halt the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Why It Matters

The call for a truce is a significant diplomatic gesture, reflecting China’s potential role as a peacemaker in the Ukraine conflict. As hostilities on Ukraine’s eastern front intensify, the world looks to major powers like China to steer the course toward peace.

During his first European visit in five years, Xi met with Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Paris. The leaders discussed a range of issues, including trade and the Ukraine conflict, with a focus on presenting a united stance.

China’s deepening trade and military ties with Russia have been a point of contention, especially since the EU and the U.S. imposed sanctions following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Despite these tensions, China’s trade with Russia soared to a record $240.1 billion in 2023, marking a significant increase from the previous year.

Xi’s support for the Olympic truce, a tradition of suspending armed conflicts during the games, aligns with Macron’s commitment to peace during the Paris Summer Games from July 26 to August 11 and the subsequent Paralympic Games. This endorsement is seen as a hopeful sign that Xi could persuade Russian President Vladimir Putin to agree to a ceasefire during his upcoming visit to China.

Macron and von der Leyen have emphasized the importance of China’s role in ending Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. They have expressed hope that the temporary truce could pave the way for broader diplomatic efforts and a sustainable resolution to the conflict.

Xi’s stance on the conflict has been cautious, supporting an international peace conference recognized by both Russia and Ukraine. However, he has shown reservations about a Swiss-organized peace conference scheduled for June 16, which Moscow has not been invited to.

The EU is currently deliberating sanctions against some Chinese firms suspected of aiding Russia’s war effort, highlighting the delicate balance China must maintain in its international relations.

As the situation unfolds, the international community remains watchful of China’s actions and commitments. The outcome of these diplomatic engagements could have profound implications for the trajectory of the Ukraine conflict and the broader geopolitical landscape.

Key Takeaways

• China's President Xi Jingping calls for a global truce during the Paris Olympic Games.
• Xi met with Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Paris.
• French president and the head of the European Commission urged Xi to use his influence on Russia to end its war in Ukraine.
• In recent years, China has build up trade and military ties with Russia as the U.S. and its allies imposed sanctions on both countries.
• EU is currently considering sanctions on Chinese firms believed to aid Russia's war efforts in Ukraine.