Any peace initiative can achieve its goal only if the mediators are ready to talk with Kyiv.
This was stated by President Frank-Walter Steinmeier of Germany, who commented on the upcoming visit of China’s President Xi Jinping to Moscow, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.
"I cannot foresee the outcome of the negotiations in Moscow. I can only say that every peace initiative, regardless of who it originates from, will be successful only if there is also a willingness to talk with Ukrainians, with the Ukrainian president," said Steinmeier.
Read also: Xi Jinping goes to Russia to 'urge peace and promote talks' - Chinese Foreign Ministry
He "wishes" China can play a constructive role. But, the German leader added, it is necessary to understand what a just peace means. This involves, first of all, clearly stating, who the aggressor is and who is the victim in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
Read also: Britain says China should encourage Russia to withdraw troops from Ukraine
Earlier, the German president questioned Beijing's willingness to act as a mediator between Ukraine and Russia. Commenting on China's release of its 12-point vision for resolving the conflict, he said: “any constructive proposal that brings us closer to a just peace is very welcome. Does world power China want to play such a constructive role? This remains a question. If so, China should in any case talk not only to Moscow, but also to Kyiv," Steinmeier said, recalling that China was not among the countries that condemned Russia's aggression in the UN General Assembly or supported the resolution calling on Russia to withdraw troops from Ukraine.
As reported, Xi Jinping is expected to pay a visit to Moscow on March 20-22.
