China has announced its intention to send a new energy assistance package to Ukraine, aimed at helping the country rebuild its infrastructure following extensive Russian attacks.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha held talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Munich, where they focused on enhancing mutually beneficial trade and bilateral relations, emphasizing respect for territorial integrity. Sybiha highlighted the importance of China’s role in peace efforts and discussed the current situation on the front lines, including Russian assaults on Ukraine’s energy system and the impact on Chinese businesses.
“I am grateful for Beijing’s decision to provide additional humanitarian energy assistance to Ukraine,” Sybiha stated. He also extended an invitation for Wang Yi to visit Ukraine and expressed appreciation for the invitation to visit China.
It is noteworthy that China has become the largest importer of Russian oil in recent times, significantly increasing its maritime imports due to the drop in commodity prices stemming from international sanctions.
Since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, China has publicly announced limited assistance to Kyiv. In March 2022, the Chinese Foreign Ministry declared a humanitarian aid contribution of $1.5 million through the Red Cross. Last year, China expressed willingness to participate in Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction, with a spokesperson from the Chinese International Development Cooperation Agency stating that aid would align with the wishes of the parties involved. To date, China has provided four batches of humanitarian assistance to Ukraine since the conflict began.
China is set to deliver a new energy aid package to Ukraine, as confirmed by discussions between Ukrainian and Chinese foreign ministers. This assistance aims to support Ukraine's recovery from ongoing Russian attacks, reflecting China's limited but significant role in the conflict.