China's Role in Post-War Ukraine

On Wednesday, April 9, from 9:00-10:00 CEST, MERICS hosted a confidential online discussion about China's potential role in Ukraine after the war. 

International stakeholders are starting to grapple with the question of Ukraine’s post-war security and reconstruction. China is likely to play a role. While China’s involvement can be positive for Ukraine and Europe in some ways, risks and challenges will also emerge. 

While Beijing has denied rumors that it would be willing to put peacekeeping troops in Ukraine, it has already signaled its willingness to contribute to Ukraine’s reconstruction. China has a track record of getting involved in post-conflict reconstruction efforts, often focusing on critical infrastructure and prioritizing loans and investments over grants or development aid. China’s eventual involvement in post-war Ukraine will be shaped by Beijing’s long-term strategic interests and objectives. Its close ties to Moscow and strategic competition with the US and the West will also play a key role. 

Speakers: Helena Legarda (Lead Analyst, MERICS), Yurii Poita (Head of the Asia-Pacific Section, Center for Army, Conversion and Disarmament Studies Ukraine and European China Policy Fellow, MERICS) and Ondrej Wagner (EU Delegation to Ukraine, EEAS).

The conversation was for MERICS Members and key stakeholders, and by personal invitation only.