Why China keeps its peacekeepers out of Ukraine

[WORLD] The ongoing war in Ukraine has drawn international attention, with countries around the world grappling with how to address the conflict. As one of the most powerful and influential nations globally, China has been closely watching the situation, considering its potential role. While many countries and organizations have explored diplomatic and military solutions, China has chosen to remain cautious, particularly when it comes to sending peacekeepers to Ukraine. This article explores the reasons behind China's decision to refrain from involving its peacekeeping forces in Ukraine, considering diplomatic, economic, and geopolitical factors that make such a move risky for Beijing.

1. China's Longstanding Approach to Peacekeeping

China has long participated in international peacekeeping missions, predominantly under the umbrella of the United Nations (UN). Since the 1990s, China has sent peacekeepers to various conflict zones, including countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. However, these missions have typically been in regions with lower geopolitical stakes and fewer risks of direct confrontation between major powers. China’s participation in such missions reflects its commitment to global peace, but also its desire to avoid situations where its peacekeepers could be caught in the middle of high-stakes geopolitical conflicts.

Sending peacekeepers to Ukraine, which is a direct theater of conflict between Russia and Ukraine, would represent a sharp departure from this pattern. As the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, the stakes have only grown higher. With NATO, the European Union, and Russia all heavily involved, China's involvement could easily complicate international relations. The complexities of this conflict make it an undesirable theater for China's peacekeeping efforts, which typically prioritize stability in less contentious regions.

2. Diplomatic Ties with Russia: A Delicate Balance

China's approach to the Ukraine conflict is heavily influenced by its strategic partnership with Russia. Since the early 2000s, China and Russia have grown closer politically and economically, particularly in opposition to what both countries perceive as Western hegemony. China and Russia share mutual interests in countering U.S. influence, both in Asia and globally. This cooperation has been solidified through joint military exercises, trade agreements, and strategic dialogues.

China has consistently called for peace and diplomacy in the Ukraine conflict, but without taking a side. By not condemning Russia's actions outright, China maintains its diplomatic and strategic ties with Russia, which are vital for its geopolitical goals. The delicate balance of supporting Russia's interests without alienating the West is a central tenet of China's foreign policy, and sending peacekeepers to Ukraine could disrupt this balance.

China’s policy of neutrality serves its broader interests. Any direct intervention in Ukraine could force China to choose between its partnership with Russia and its relationships with the European Union and the United States. By staying out of the conflict, China avoids exacerbating tensions with either side.

3. The Risk of Escalation and International Backlash

The Ukraine conflict is not a typical peacekeeping situation. Unlike previous peacekeeping operations, where international actors could deploy troops to stabilize a region in the aftermath of conflict, Ukraine is an active battleground with substantial military involvement from the world’s most powerful nations. With Russia’s military actions in Ukraine and NATO’s support for Ukraine, any foreign intervention—particularly by a global power like China—could lead to unintended escalation.

China is acutely aware of the risk that sending peacekeepers to Ukraine could provoke further conflict. The possibility of Chinese peacekeepers clashing with either Russian or NATO forces presents a real threat of escalation. This risk is particularly dangerous given the possibility of broader military confrontations and the potential for global repercussions. Such escalation could damage China's global standing, lead to economic sanctions, or even provoke military confrontations.

Moreover, any direct involvement in Ukraine would force China into a confrontational position with NATO, a military alliance that includes many of China's key trading partners. As one of the largest economies in the world, China is careful not to jeopardize its economic relationships with Western countries. The risk of triggering economic sanctions or facing a diplomatic backlash from both NATO and Russia makes peacekeeping in Ukraine a highly undesirable option for China.

4. China's Preference for Non-Interference and Respect for Sovereignty

Another key reason behind China’s decision to keep its peacekeepers out of Ukraine is its longstanding policy of non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations. China places great emphasis on sovereignty and the principle of non-intervention, which are enshrined in the UN Charter and form the cornerstone of its foreign policy.

China has consistently advocated for a diplomatic solution to the Ukraine conflict, calling for negotiations and dialogue rather than military intervention. However, the idea of sending peacekeepers into a sovereign nation like Ukraine could be seen as an infringement on its territorial integrity, something that runs counter to China’s own foreign policy principles. The Chinese government has emphasized that all countries should respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of others, a stance that makes peacekeeping in Ukraine highly problematic.

Furthermore, China’s stance on sovereignty and non-interference has been a major point of contention in its relationship with the United States and Western allies. If China were to intervene in Ukraine, it could be accused of hypocrisy, especially in light of its stance on Taiwan and its broader regional ambitions in Asia.

5. Economic Considerations and Domestic Priorities

Beyond the diplomatic and geopolitical factors, China also has significant economic interests that guide its decision to stay out of the Ukraine conflict. China has carefully cultivated its economic relations with Europe, the United States, and Russia. In particular, its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which aims to build infrastructure and foster economic development across Asia, Africa, and Europe, is one of China's most important foreign policy strategies.

China’s economic priorities at home and abroad also factor into its decision-making process. The country has faced significant economic challenges, including the aftereffects of the COVID-19 pandemic and domestic issues such as its aging population. Sending peacekeepers to Ukraine would divert valuable resources—both financial and human—away from domestic development goals.

China has been focusing on its internal stability, including economic recovery and modernization efforts. Maintaining peace and economic growth at home is a priority for the Chinese government, which sees its own development as key to securing its position as a global power.

6. The Potential for Greater Influence through Diplomacy

China's approach to the Ukraine conflict emphasizes its preference for diplomacy over military intervention. By staying out of the conflict, China retains the ability to position itself as a neutral mediator, capable of fostering dialogue between Russia and Ukraine. This diplomatic role could enhance China’s global standing and provide opportunities for it to shape the future of European security through non-violent means.

By refraining from military intervention, China could use its influence to broker peace and create a more favorable global image. China’s efforts to be seen as a peacemaker could serve to strengthen its diplomatic relations with both Russia and Western countries, enhancing its role in international governance.

China’s decision to keep its peacekeepers out of Ukraine is based on a combination of diplomatic, economic, and strategic considerations. As a major global power, China must carefully navigate its relationships with both Russia and Western countries, balancing its desire for peace with the risks of becoming embroiled in a complex and dangerous conflict. By adhering to its principles of non-interference, maintaining its neutrality, and focusing on economic growth, China ensures that its actions align with its broader long-term objectives.

While China is committed to global peace, its cautious approach underscores the challenges of peacekeeping in a world where geopolitical rivalries are often at the forefront.