EU needs to ‘get tough’ on China to rein in Russia
German Foreign Minister warns Beijing of ‘violating European security interests’ as exhausted Ukraine hangs on
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock talked tough about China’s involvement in Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine. Her statements before and during her visit to Beijing this week could be considered hardcore.
“Drones from Chinese factories and North Korean troops attacking the peace in the middle of Europe are violating our core European security interests,” she said after discussions with Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi.
But Germany and the rest of the European Union have failed to untangle Beijing’s close ties to Moscow while funneling €45.5 billion, or US$47.8 billion, in military aid to Ukraine. Diplomatically, it has been a devastating defeat.
As the Mercator Institute for China Studies pointed out in a May commentary by MERICS researcher Eva Seiwert, “It’s time for the EU to get tough on China for supporting Russia’s war on Ukraine.” The response from the 27-member states has been underwhelming since then.
Drones from Chinese factories [are] attacking the peace of Europe.
Annalena Baerbock, German Foreign Minister
News from the front:
- Exhausted Ukrainian troops are desperately trying to stem Russian advances after nearly three years of war.
- More than 10,000 North Korean soldiers have boosted Russian ranks.
- Iranian and North Korean missiles continue to target Ukraine towns and cities.
- Made in China drones have been used against Ukraine’s frontline.
Delve deeper: “While advocating de-escalation, Beijing continues to support Russia and has not condemned its actions in Ukraine,” Baerbock told a briefing after her trip to Beijing.
Between the lines: Last month, it was widely reported that “a China-based company” was “producing military drones for use in Russia’s war against Ukraine,” a senior EU official told the Politico media group.
Big picture: Baerbock picked up the theme when discussing “core interests.” China “is going against” them “by providing economic assistance and weapons support to Russia,” she said.
China Factor comment: Peace talks are being openly discussed before Donald Trump enters the White House next month. But “appeasement,” the scourge of the 1930s and a trigger for World War II, should be off the table when dealing with Russia and China.