Photo by Gerry Roarty on Unsplash
Russia’s war of invasion of Ukraine has not only brought suffering to the people of Ukraine but has also become a significant turning point in global geopolitics. In the context of growing uncertainty on the international stage, China may use the upcoming sessions of the UN General Assembly to promote its peaceful initiatives regarding the resolution of Russian aggression. These potential moves raise concerns among Western countries, which see them as an attempt by Beijing to enhance its influence internationally while weakening Europe’s position and advancing its own strategic interests.
One of the most alarming developments is China’s attempt to garner support from Global South countries for discussions on ending the war in Ukraine but without the involvement of Ukraine and Russia themselves. This indicates Beijing’s desire to seize the initiative and become a key player, shaping new rules on the international stage.
This situation is becoming dangerous for Europe, which is already facing economic challenges and the threat of energy dependence. Uncertainty about Ukraine’s future within the EU and NATO and ongoing fluctuations regarding aid to Kyiv only heightens this risk. EU countries, which traditionally advocate a unified security policy, may find themselves in a position where China dictates terms, influencing decisions on European security matters.
China is already pushing the West out of various regions through economic expansion, while Russia resorts to more aggressive and destructive methods. China operates more subtly, using diplomatic and economic leverage, making its threat more insidious.
Europe may lose control of the situation if it continues to act indecisively. Against the backdrop of the American elections and a possible shift in U.S. foreign policy, European countries need to develop a unified strategy that effectively addresses both Russian aggression and China’s growing influence.
Belgian experts have noted that Europe may find itself caught between two fires: on one side is an aggressive Russia, and on the other is China, which skilfully manipulates the international agenda, strengthening its influence in global politics and economics. One can only hope that European leaders will find common ground and devise a strategy capable of protecting European interests amid new geopolitical realities.
Regarding Chinese expansion and its impact on Europe, Belgian experts such as Sasha Duvall, an analyst in international relations at the Brussels Research Center, have commented pointing out that China aims to exploit the uncertainty caused by the war in Ukraine to strengthen its positions in Eurasia and the Global South. Additionally, Karin Leyten, an expert from the European Institute of Foreign Affairs (EGMONT), warned that the expansion of Chinese influence in the context of the Ukraine conflict undermines European unity and its ability to respond to emerging threats.
Foreign policy experts emphasise that Europe must act decisively to prevent China from dictating terms on the international stage and using the conflict to strengthen its geopolitical position. Otherwise, the risk of Europe being weakened in the face of Chinese expansion will become more than real, and the global consequences of this will be felt not only in the political sphere but also economically.
