Is China using their 12-Step proposal for Ukraine to gain influence in the region?

China proposed a 12-point plan for peace, which Western leaders initially appeared hesitant to support.

On the first anniversary of the war between Ukraine and Russia, China presented a 12-point plan aimed at achieving peace among all parties involved. The proposal emphasized the protection of civilians from harm and the facilitation of grain exports, a significant export commodity for Ukraine. While China has claimed neutrality in the conflict, some have raised questions about its motivations and potential consequences. Despite criticism from Western leaders, the plan’s framework for post-conflict reconstruction and stabilization could serve as a starting point for negotiations between all parties involved. As the situation in Ukraine remains unstable, the international community must continue to seek diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation and promote lasting peace.

The proposal suggested that Russia be granted concessions, including the lifting of Western sanctions and a possible transfer of land from Ukraine to Russia, specifically Crimea and the Donbas region. Additionally, the plan called for NATO to retreat from Russia’s borders, an issue that Putin has repeatedly cited as a threat to his nation. Although Ukraine is not a NATO member, it seeks membership.

According to the Daily Wire, China’s 12-point plan included:

• Respecting the sovereignty of all countries
• Abandoning the Cold War mentality
• Ceasing hostilities
• Resuming peace talks
• Resolving the humanitarian crisis
• Protecting civilians and prisoners of war
• Keeping nuclear power plants safe
• Reducing strategic risks
• Facilitating grain exports
• Stopping unilateral sanctions
• Keeping industrial and supply chains stable
• Promoting post-conflict reconstruction

Many in west have stated their belief that this proposal is merely a way for China to position itself as a peacemaker and gain favor with Russia. Moreover, the proposal’s call for concessions to Russia and the retreat of NATO could be seen as a way for China to weaken Western influence in Ukraine, while attempting to strengthen China’s influence in the area.

While China’s proposal may have some merit, it is important to approach it with caution and carefully consider its motivations and potential consequences. However, Biden’s decision to avoid all peace talks with Russia could be opening up the door for a much larger World War III-like scenario, which China appears to be avoiding, as China is heavily reliant on the West.

Overall, China’s proposal for peace in Ukraine on the one-year anniversary of the conflict presents a potential path forward for resolving the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The 12-point plan calls for various measures to de-escalate tensions, including a ceasefire, peace talks, and concessions to Russia, which has received criticism from Western leaders. However, the plan’s framework for post-conflict reconstruction and stabilization could serve as a starting point for negotiations between all parties involved. As the situation in Ukraine remains unstable, the international community must continue to seek diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation and promote lasting peace.

Gwen Stokes