China, at UN, warns against ‘expansion of the battlefield’ in the Ukraine war

Associated Press

NEW YORK (AP) — Three days before his communist government turns 75, China’s foreign minister is warning fellow leaders against an “expansion of the battlefield” in Russia’s war with Ukraine. Wang Yi says the Beijing government is committed to shuttle diplomacy and efforts to push the conflict toward its end. He warns other nations against “throwing oil on the fire or exploiting the situation for selfish gains.” Wang’s speech appeared to break no new ground, as is generally China’s recent practice at the U.N. General Assembly’s annual meeting of leaders. In fact, his boss, Chinese President Xi Jinping, has not participated since 2021 — and then only virtually, during the pandemic. Xi has not attended in person for several years.