China to host Belarusian leader Lukashenko amid Ukraine tensions

• Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko is scheduled to arrive in Beijing on Tuesday.
• China has had a longstanding relationship with Lukashenko.
• Lukashenko stated that the current situation is “unique” to put an end to the conflict.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, a close Russian ally, was scheduled to arrive in Beijing on Tuesday for a state visit that will be scrutinised for hints about China‘s reaction to Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.

China claims neutrality in the conflict, but US officials have recently warned that it is considering sending military aid to Russia. Beijing has dismissed the US allegations as a smear campaign and has stated its commitment to promoting peace talks.

China has had a longstanding relationship with Lukashenko. However, his visit demonstrates the breadth of Beijing’s ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin and his allies.

Belarus’ territory was used as a staging ground for the initial invasion of Ukraine a year ago, thanks to Lukashenko’s government’s strong support for Moscow.

This stance has further isolated Lukashenko in Europe, where his country is facing sanctions from the European Union for its role in the war as well as his repression of domestic opposition. Belarus continues to house Russian troops, warplanes, and other military equipment.

In a recent interview with Chinese media, Lukashenko stated that the current situation is “unique… to put an end to the conflict.” The interview was first released last week, but parts of it were shared online again by Belarusian state media on Monday night.

There was no word from Chinese state media about his arrival or any activities in Beijing, on Tuesday.

Also Read

China says TikTok ban reflects US insecurities

The US government's ban on the Chinese-owned video sharing app TikTok. TikTok...