Former U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed optimism that China could play a key diplomatic role in nudging Russia toward renewed peace negotiations over Ukraine. Speaking to reporters at his Florida residence on Friday, Trump said he believed “China’s influence over Moscow” could be decisive in bringing both sides back to the table and ending what he called “a war that should have never gone this far.”
Trump, who has repeatedly signaled his intention to broker a peace deal between Kyiv and Moscow if re-elected, emphasized that Beijing holds “significant leverage” over Russian President Vladimir Putin, both economically and strategically. “President Xi has the ability to encourage Putin to make peace,” Trump said. “China doesn’t want to see instability or global economic disruption—so I think they can help us move toward a solution.”
His remarks come amid increasing speculation that the White House may support Trump’s informal diplomatic outreach efforts, particularly after the collapse of the planned Trump-Putin meeting in Budapest earlier this week. Although the former president insisted his talks with Moscow were “ongoing through other channels,” he admitted that recent discussions had “not gone anywhere.”
China has maintained a delicate balance throughout the war in Ukraine, calling for a negotiated settlement while avoiding direct condemnation of Russia’s invasion. Beijing’s 12-point peace proposal, released in early 2023, received a mixed response from Western leaders but was welcomed by Moscow as a “constructive framework.” Analysts say Trump’s latest comments indicate a willingness to align parts of his diplomatic approach with China’s mediation style—one focused on economic incentives rather than military pressure.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials remain skeptical of any deal that allows Russia to retain occupied territories. President Volodymyr Zelensky has said he would only participate in peace talks that respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity and involve international guarantees for long-term security.
Still, Trump’s remarks suggest a growing sense of urgency to find an exit from the conflict. “Every day this war continues, people are dying, economies are suffering, and the world gets closer to a bigger catastrophe,” he warned. “If we can bring China, Russia, and Ukraine to the same table, it would be a massive step toward stability.”
As tensions rise across Eastern Europe, attention will now turn to Beijing’s response. Whether China chooses to take a more active diplomatic role—or continues its cautious neutrality—could determine whether Trump’s vision for peace has any real chance of success.
Trump says Putin talks ‘don’t go anywhere’ as he imposes new sanctions
