China’s envoy says ‘significant gap’ between Kyiv and Moscow on peace talks

Speaking to the media after his latest European tour, Li Hui expresses hope that both sides might come together.

Li Hui, China’s special envoy for Ukraine, has said there remained a “significant gap” between Moscow and Kyiv on peace talks to end the more than two-year-long war, although both agreed it was the best way to resolve the crisis.

Beijing has sought to position itself as a mediator in the conflict, releasing its own 12-point plan for a “political settlement” and holding several rounds of talks.

But while China insists it remains neutral, it has attracted criticism for deepening its relationship with Russia even after President Vladimir Putin launched his full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Briefing media and diplomats in Beijing after his latest trip to Russia, Ukraine, France, Germany and Poland, Li said Kyiv and Moscow remained far apart.

But he said both recognised talks were the best way to resolve the crisis.