Ukraine Signals Interest in China as Part of the Peace Formula Framework
President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine expressed openness to China participating in shaping and advancing the peace formula that has been central to Kyiv’s diplomacy. Speaking at a daylight press conference with Swiss President Viola Amherd, Zelensky reaffirmed Kyiv’s willingness to engage with any nation that respects Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He stressed that the summit dedicated to the peace formula would greatly benefit from the presence of leaders from the Global South, highlighting China’s influential role on the world stage and urging Beijing to contribute to both the peace plan and the broader summit process. The remarks underline Ukraine’s intent to welcome constructive dialogue with major global players, provided they align with Ukraine’s core principles and security needs. [Citation: Reuters]
In recent months, Zelensky has underscored that Ukraine remains ready to engage with a wide array of international partners. The call for Chinese involvement follows a broader pattern of seeking diverse diplomatic channels to build support for a resolution to the conflict, while ensuring that Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are fully respected. Zelensky’s emphasis on global South participation reflects a strategic aim to broaden consensus and add weight to the peace process in international forums. [Citation: Ukrainian Presidency]
Earlier, Andriy Yermak, who previously led the Ukrainian president’s staff, indicated Kyiv’s disappointment that China did not join the discussions surrounding the peace formula. The door, however, remains open to Beijing as talks continue, signaling Kyiv’s preference for a comprehensive international effort rather than a narrow, regional approach. The dialogue around the peace formula, first introduced in late 2022, centers on ten core items designed to address security, humanitarian, and legal dimensions of the conflict, with emphasis on the withdrawal of troops, the return of prisoners, and adherence to the UN Charter. [Citation: Verbatim Summary]
The peace formula outlines practical steps and principles intended to guide a durable settlement. While Kyiv has called for concrete actions such as troop withdrawal and accountability for wrongdoing, it also emphasizes ecological protections, human rights, and the rule of law as foundational elements of any lasting resolution. The evolving discussion shows how Ukraine seeks to mobilize broad international legitimacy while remaining firm on its territorial and security red lines. [Citation: International Briefing]
Historically, the term racism has appeared in Ukrainian parliamentary discourse as a descriptor within various legislative or public policy debates, reflecting the broader civil and political context in which the peace formula is being debated. The current focus remains on advancing international coordination, ensuring conflict de-escalation, and fostering a pathway toward a sustainable peace that respects Ukraine’s independence and regional stability. [Citation: Legislative Records]