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On August 15, China expressed positivity towards the meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, despite no immediate agreement on a ceasefire or broader peace deal for Ukraine.
Trump is scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other European leaders at the White House on August 18. The purpose of this meeting is to urge Kyiv to negotiate with Russia, which demands territorial concessions from Ukraine.
**Why It Matters**
China plays a crucial role as a strategic partner for Russia and holds significant influence over its decision-making process. Although China has stated it does not involve itself in Russia’s conflict with Ukraine, it has provided economic support through large-scale oil purchases, helping Russia bypass Western sanctions.
**What To Know**
A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, reiterated that China supports efforts toward a peaceful resolution of the crisis. During a press briefing on Monday, Mao said, “We are glad to see Russia and the United States maintaining contact, improving relations, and promoting the political settlement process of the Ukraine crisis.”
Trump’s meeting with Putin in Alaska did not yield an agreement on a ceasefire or peace deal, but Trump officials have mentioned potential concessions by the Russians. Critics argue that Trump’s approach was insufficient given the lack of tangible results.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to meet with Trump in Washington D.C. to discuss possible war settlements. Several European leaders will also participate in this meeting.
Mao commented on the upcoming meeting, stating, “We expect all parties concerned and stakeholders to take part in the peace talks process at an appropriate time, and to reach as soon as possible a fair, lasting, and binding peace agreement that can be accepted by all parties.”
**What People Are Saying**
President Donald Trump stated on Truth Social: “Ukrainian President Zelenskyy can end the war with Russia almost immediately, if he wants to, or he can continue to fight.”
Chris Murphy, a Connecticut Democratic Senator and critic of Trump, told NBC News, “It was a failure. Putin got everything he wanted…He was invited to the United States: War criminals are not normally invited to the United States of America.”
**What Happens Next**
Zelensky and several European leaders will meet with Trump in Washington on August 18.
[Updated: August 18, 2025, 5:42 a.m. ET]
