Zelenskyy Accuses China of Supplying Weapons to Russia as Conflict Escalates
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused China of supplying weapons to Russia and participating in production on Russian territory. He noted a shift in Russian attacks from energy facilities to civilian infrastructure and highlighted ongoing international discussions for peace. Ukraine has signed a memorandum with the U.S. for reconstruction funding, demonstrating continued diplomatic efforts amidst the conflict.
In a recent briefing, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy alleged that China is supplying weapons to Russia, including gunpowder and artillery, and indicated that Chinese representatives are involved in weapon production on Russian soil. Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine would provide supporting documentation for these assertions next week. It is noteworthy that the Associated Press has not yet confirmed these claims.
Zelenskyy pointed out that while Russia has diminished its strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, it has intensified attacks on civilian targets. At a press conference in Kyiv, he noted that despite the shift, the total number of missiles and drones launched by Russia remains unchanged. He remarked, “They reduced their strikes on energy. That’s a fact. But I wanted us to pay attention to this – Russia did not reduce the number of strikes; that was the strategy … by reducing [strikes on] energy, they are hitting other civilian infrastructure.”
At the United Nations Security Council, Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia accused Ukraine of disregarding the energy ceasefire. Following a council meeting, representatives from Slovenia, Denmark, France, Greece, and the United Kingdom called upon Russia to engage in a full and unconditional ceasefire. Slovenia’s UN ambassador, Samuel Zbogar, emphasized that Ukraine has shown a willingness for peace by agreeing to a ceasefire proposal five weeks ago, while expressing disappointment at Russia’s rejection of the ceasefire.
Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko revealed that Kyiv had signed a memorandum of intent with Washington to establish an investment fund for Ukraine’s reconstruction. Additionally, U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to sign a minerals deal next Thursday, with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicating that a deal is anticipated by April 26.
Top negotiators from the E3 nations (Britain, France, and Germany) are slated to reconvene in London next week to advance ceasefire discussions, following a meeting between Trump’s delegacy and European foreign ministers. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot remarked on the significance of having the United States, Ukraine, and European nations convened together for these discussions. A senior adviser to President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the importance of initiating a positive process in Paris involving European stakeholders. Additionally, Marco Rubio, former Secretary of State, communicated with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, as reported by the U.S. State Department.
In summary, President Zelenskyy’s statements regarding Chinese arms being supplied to Russia underscore ongoing geopolitical tensions. While Russia appears to have reduced attacks on energy facilities, civilians remain under threat from attacks on other infrastructure. The international community, represented by various ambassadors and negotiators, continues to push for a ceasefire, emphasizing Ukraine’s commitment to peace. Meanwhile, the establishment of an investment fund signifies support for Ukraine’s recovery and ongoing diplomatic dialogues involving the United States and Europe.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
