China encourages Russia, Ukraine to hold direct talks - FM

That's according to the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

Wang Yi said that the "situation in Ukraine has developed to the point, which the Chinese side does not want to see," the statement read.

He said that the Ukrainian issue is "intricate" and it is related not only to the basic norms of international relations, but also to the security interests of all parties.

The Chinese politician called on the United States, NATO, the European Union and Russia to have an equal dialogue, "face up to the contradictions and problems accumulated over the years, pay attention to the negative impact of the continuous eastward expansion of NATO on Russia's security environment, and seek to build a balanced, effective and sustainable security environment."

"It is necessary to focus not only on the resolution of the current crisis, but also on achieving long-term peace and stability of the region," the Chinese minister said. He noted that China, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, always "builds its position and policy based on the merits of the matter." China believes that in order to resolve the "Ukraine crisis" it is necessary to act in accordance with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. On the one hand, it is necessary to respect and protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, and on the other hand, it is necessary to insist on peaceful settlement of disputes through dialogue.

Wang Yi expressed hope that the fighting will stop as soon as possible, the situation on the ground will be eased, the safety of civilians' lives and properties will be effectively guaranteed, and large-scale humanitarian crises will be prevented.

The Chinese Foreign Minister stated that the "Ukrainian crisis" can be resolved only through dialogue and negotiations. According to him, China supports all efforts that contribute to de-escalation and political settlement and opposes any actions that are not conducive to promoting a diplomatic solution but "instead fuel the fire and escalate the situation."

China will continue to speak out and do its best for peace and will encourage Russia and Ukraine to negotiate directly, the diplomat said. He acknowledged that the talks may not go smoothly, but stressed that the international community must continue to cooperate and support them until results and peace are achieved.

As reported, on February 24, Russian President Putin declared war on Ukraine and launched a large-scale invasion of the country. Russian troops are killing civilians, shelling and destroying key infrastructure, with missiles hitting Ukrainians' homes.

Zelensky signed a decree on general mobilization.

Ukraine officially filed a lawsuit against the Russian Federation to the International Court of Justice in The Hague.