Donald Trump’s statement, “I would like China’s help with Russia,” made before embarking on his Asian tour, was a resounding development in global politics[i]. Trump’s words offered important clues not only about the future of the Russo-Ukrainian War but also about the reshaping of the global balance of power. This statement by the US President signaled a shift away from Washington’s traditional unilateral diplomacy and toward a multi-actor solution. The involvement of a global actor like China in the mediation role, in particular, has the potential to open a new chapter in international politics.
The Trump administration’s approach to the Ukraine War has been more pragmatic than in previous eras. The US’s attempt to avoid direct military intervention and strike a balance through diplomatic pressure and economic sanctions has been the most obvious manifestation of this pragmatism. However, developments on the front lines in recent months have challenged Trump’s promises of a “quick solution.” Neither negotiations with Russia have yielded results, nor has the aid provided to Ukraine fundamentally altered the balance on the ground. At this point, Trump’s turn to China has been interpreted as a new diplomatic experiment.
Trump’s statement that “Xi Jinping could have great influence over Putin” demonstrated that the US also recognizes the geopolitical position China has gained in recent years[ii]. China has established a relationship of “unlimited friendship” with Russia and developed close cooperation in energy, defense, and technology. Despite this, the Beijing administration has not directly supported the war, instead basing its diplomatic discourse on “preserving the peace.” This stance is the product of China’s strategy to create a neutral space for itself within the global peace architecture.
From China’s perspective, the war in Ukraine has become an issue that requires careful management, both for its economic and strategic interests. Beijing has strengthened its trade ties with Russia without directly exposing itself to Western sanctions. Russian oil and natural gas have created a significant opportunity for China’s energy security. At the same time, this trade has weakened Western economies’ goal of isolating Russia. Trump’s call for “China to help” was, in fact, an indirect acknowledgment of Beijing’s decisive role in the course of the war[iii].
China’s potential to contribute to peace stems not only from its economic power but also from its diplomatic reputation. The Xi Jinping administration has attracted attention in recent years, particularly for its mediation efforts in the Middle East (e.g., the rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Iran). The idea that the same formula could be applied to the Russia-Ukraine crisis has gained traction in the international community. China has emerged as a responsible advocate for global peace through its initiatives to de-escalate tensions. Therefore, Trump’s expectations of Beijing have gained not only political but also moral legitimacy.
Trump’s decision to impose sanctions on two major Russian oil companies in the same week demonstrated that the US still employs hard power. However, the long-term effectiveness of these sanctions remains uncertain. The Kremlin’s statement that “we are immune to these sanctions” revealed that Moscow has become accustomed to Western pressure and has developed alternative economic networks[iv], chief among these being China. Beijing’s demand for the Russian energy sector has partially revitalized Moscow’s economy. Thus, US economic pressure has not produced the expected results.
Trump’s efforts to weaken Russia through sanctions while simultaneously seeking mediation from China have created a contradictory foreign policy landscape. However, this contradiction has been seen as a reflection of the inherent flexibility of Trump’s diplomacy. Trump has adopted “hard bargaining” as a strategy within the international system. Therefore, his turn to China has been a demonstration of tactical flexibility.
Xi Jinping’s approach, however, has been more systematic and long-term than Trump’s. China believes that global stability is directly linked to its own development vision. The sustainability of megaprojects like the Belt and Road Initiative has depended on a reduction in global conflicts. Therefore, Beijing viewed the prolongation of the war in Ukraine as contrary to its interests. By engaging in dialogue with both Putin and other regional leaders, Xi Jinping has sought to build a “multipolar peace architecture.” This architecture aims to create a more inclusive system beyond the Western-centric order.
China’s diplomatic style emphasizes mutual respect and economic cooperation over sanctions and threats. This stance has been particularly well-received by developing countries. Trump’s statement, “Xi can solve this,” effectively established the reputation of Chinese diplomacy.
The relationship between Russia and China has developed on a strategic rather than ideological basis. In the face of Western pressure, the two countries have supported each other and established mutual dependence. In this context, Beijing’s support for Moscow stems not only from political solidarity but also from economic necessity. Russia’s energy exports have become an indispensable resource for China, while China has become a reliable market for Russia. This has further strengthened the alliance between the two countries. However, China has never fully endorsed Russia’s war policies. Beijing has maintained a neutral stance on this issue. This policy of balance has demonstrated China’s diplomatic mastery.
The situation has become more complex for Ukraine. The US’s refusal to provide Tomahawk missiles and the European Union’s (EU) refusal to release frozen Russian funds have placed the Kyiv administration in a difficult position. Zelensky’s call that “no country should be left alone against this evil” actually pointed to the limits of Western support[v]. At this point, China’s intervention could create an unexpected opportunity for Kyiv. Beijing, acting as a neutral mediator, has been able to establish trust with both Moscow and Kyiv. This atmosphere of trust could contribute to the resumption of the negotiation process in the future.
Trump’s request for assistance from China heralded a new paradigm shift in international relations. Global crises are now shaped not only by the Western alliance but also by Asian-centric powers. China’s constructive approach to peace has created a profile of responsible leadership in the international community. Beijing has masterfully struck a balance between economic development and diplomatic credibility.
Trump’s words, perhaps unintentionally, made China’s new position more visible. Thanks to Xi Jinping’s rational, patient, and long-term strategy, China has become a “balancing element” in global politics. In this process, China has come to be known not only as a superpower but also as the quiet architect of international peace. Thus, Trump’s call marked a turning point in history.
[i] Wertheimer, Tiffany. “Trump Hopes China Will Help Push Russia Towards Ukraine Peace Talks”, BBC News, www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn51yk9vgrko, (Access Date: 26.10.2025).
[ii] Ibid.
[iii] Ibid.
[iv] Ibid.
[v] Ibid.
