CNN "Russia Recognizes Independence of Donetsk and Lugansk... China's Position Becomes Difficult"

Vladimir Putin, President of Russia [Photo by AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Byung-hee] On the 21st (local time), Russia recognized the independence of Donetsk and Luhansk regions in eastern Ukraine and deployed its troops there, putting China in a difficult position, CNN reported on the same day.

Previously, China had stated that the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of all countries must be protected regarding the Ukraine situation, and that the parties involved in the Ukraine crisis should follow the Minsk agreements. CNN assessed that China is in a difficult situation trying to balance its diplomatic principle of protecting sovereignty while maintaining a friendly relationship with Russia.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said at a security conference held in Munich, Germany, on the 19th (local time), regarding the Ukraine situation, "The sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of all countries must be respected and protected." Wang also said that all parties involved in the Ukraine crisis should abide by the Minsk agreements.

The Minsk agreements refer to the accords between Donetsk, Luhansk, Russia, and Ukraine, based on the framework that after Donetsk and Luhansk declared independence in May 2014, their independence was not recognized but broad autonomy was granted to these regions. Since the initial agreement was not properly implemented, a second Minsk agreement was reached in February 2015.

Ukraine and the West criticize Russia for breaking the Minsk agreements by recognizing the independence of Donetsk and Luhansk. Russia's recognition of Donetsk and Luhansk independence contradicts China's position emphasizing adherence to the Minsk agreements. CNN noted curiosity about what stance China will take as Russia recognizes the independence of the two regions, and predicted that China might be cautious so as not to appear to criticize Russia.

Chinese Ambassador to the UN Zhang Jun stated at the UN Security Council meeting held that day, "All relevant parties should exercise restraint and avoid any actions that could escalate tensions," and expressed a principled position, "We welcome and support all efforts for a diplomatic resolution."

China is also currently facing rising tensions with Taiwan. There are forecasts that China might invade Taiwan to complete the One-China policy. If China is considering the use of force for reunification with Taiwan, it would be difficult for China to criticize Russia's actions in Ukraine.

China and Russia have recently shown signs of growing closer while confronting the United States. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin displayed a strong bond at their summit earlier this month. The two leaders said there are no limits or taboos in the cooperation between their countries. After the summit, China also defended Russia's position by opposing the expansion of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).