A meeting held in Oslo may have far-reaching consequences for the diplomatic resolution of the conflict in Eastern Europe. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, during a conversation with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, expressed hope that Beijing would take on the role of a mediator capable of bringing the Russian leadership to the negotiating table with Ukraine.
China as the Sole Channel of Communication
According to the Norwegian Prime Minister, Beijing possesses a unique advantage — direct and trusted access to Vladimir Putin. Gahr Støre did not hide his expectations, telling journalists after the meeting that Norway firmly urges China to use this channel to achieve peace.
"China is likely the country with the best and most direct access to the Russian leadership. We expect, hope, and firmly urge China to use this channel," Støre emphasized.
The Norwegian side believes that active intervention by Beijing in the settlement process will benefit not only Ukraine but also China's relations with the European Union. Støre noted that the potential for deepening cooperation between Europe and China is huge, but the current war and Beijing's close partnership with Moscow impose serious limitations on it.
Unconditional Cessation of Fire
During the discussion, Norwegian officials voiced specific conditions that, in their opinion, should mark the beginning of peace negotiations. The main requirement was to start dialogue without preconditions. The first step in this process should be an immediate ceasefire based on the current frontline.
Gahr Støre acknowledged that such a scenario would require serious concessions from Kyiv, as the frontline runs through Ukrainian territory. "This in itself is a major concession on the part of Ukraine. It is within their territory," the Prime Minister noted.
Moscow, Beijing, and Kyiv: Three Perspectives
Norway's initiative echoes the views of some Ukrainian experts, yet assessments of China's role remain polarized. Earlier, the head of the President's Office of Ukraine, Kyrylo Budanov, stated in an interview that China indeed possesses leverage capable of forcing Vladimir Putin to end the war. However, according to Budanov, Beijing is currently interested in the continuation of hostilities, as it derives its own economic and geopolitical benefit from this.
Meanwhile, official Beijing continues to react sharply to any hints of its involvement in the escalation of the conflict. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs once again rejected accusations of training Russian military personnel on its territory. The Chinese Foreign Ministry called such reports "pure slander" and urged Western countries, particularly Germany, to objectively assess Beijing's position, which advocates for peace but does not intervene directly in military operations.
