Saint-Mézard, Isabelle
China and India’s Stance on the War in Ukraine: How Far to Support Russia?
- 2023.
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At first glance, China and India have adopted a similar approach to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Both countries have refused to condemn Russia and have preferred to call for a peaceful resolution of the conflict through negotiation. They have also declined to join the international sanctions against Russia and have maintained their political dialogue and trade exchanges with this country. Furthermore, both China and India have claimed a posture of neutrality concerning the war in Ukraine, and sought to rally all the states that have chosen not to take sides in the conflict, in the name of the “Global South”. However, the pro-Russian ambivalence of China and India conceals many nuances in their respective visions and positions regarding the war in Ukraine. More importantly, their willingness to preserve their respective relationship with Russia stems from very distinct interests and purposes. Ultimately, it appears that while China continues to support President Putin’s Russia, India struggles not to distance itself from it.