China Considers Involvement in Future Peacekeeping Mission in Ukraine

China is exploring the possibility of participating in a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine following the resolution of the ongoing conflict, according to a report from the German newspaper Welt am Sonntag on March 22, 2025. The publication cites sources within European Union diplomatic circles who indicate that Chinese representatives have engaged in a series of informal consultations in Brussels to gauge the stance of European nations regarding China’s potential involvement in such an initiative.

While discussions are still in the early stages, EU diplomats have noted a growing interest in this development, particularly in the context of stabilizing the situation in Eastern Europe. Sources suggest that China’s participation in a peacekeeping contingent could significantly influence Russia’s position on the deployment of international forces in Ukraine. European diplomats believe that Beijing’s involvement in a “coalition of the willing”—an informal alliance of countries prepared to support a peacekeeping operation—might enhance the likelihood of Moscow consenting to this arrangement.

However, the issue remains highly sensitive and requires careful deliberation. Any movement in this direction is contingent upon agreements among all parties involved in the conflict, including both Russia and Ukraine, as well as the positions of international organizations like the United Nations.

The concept of deploying peacekeepers in Ukraine is not new; discussions surrounding this idea have been ongoing since 2024. Western leaders including The United Kingdom previously advocated for the possibility of sending an international contingent to ensure security in the event of a ceasefire.