Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has ruled out China as a possible guarantor in any future peace deal with Russia, stressing that only countries which have supported Kyiv since the start of the 2022 invasion can play such a role. Speaking to reporters this week, Zelensky accused Beijing of aiding Moscow by opening drone markets and supplying dual-use components, undermining its neutrality despite repeated calls for peace. The announcement follows high-level talks in Washington, where the U.S. and European leaders discussed the structure of a peacekeeping and security framework for Ukraine once the war ends.

Ukraine Rejects China’s Role

Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine “does not need guarantors who did not help when we needed it,” pointedly excluding Beijing despite Russia’s calls to involve China in any settlement. He said security guarantees must come only from allies who have consistently backed Ukraine, including the U.S. and European partners. Earlier this year, Zelensky directly accused China of helping Russia’s arms production, claims that Beijing denied as “groundless.”

Chinese President Xi Jinping’s government has maintained a “no limits” partnership with Moscow since February 2022, providing diplomatic and economic support that has blunted the impact of Western sanctions. This relationship has reinforced Kyiv’s stance that Beijing cannot act as a neutral broker or guarantor in the conflict.

U.S. And European Commitments

Zelensky’s remarks followed meetings in Washington with former U.S. President Donald Trump and European leaders, where discussions centered on possible future security guarantees. Trump indicated the U.S. would not send ground troops but could provide air support, while European allies are deliberating their roles in the new security framework.

Meanwhile, Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said security guarantees for Ukraine cannot work without Russia and may also involve China, pointing to earlier drafts from Istanbul peace talks in 2022. Ukraine rejected those terms, which would have granted Moscow veto power over external military assistance.