BEIJING: China on Thursday refused to categorize Russia’s move on Ukraine as an ‘invasion’ and advised its citizens there to stay home or at least take the precaution of displaying a Chinese flag if they needed to drive anywhere.
Russian forces on Thursday fired missiles at several cities in Ukraine and landed troops on its coast, officials and media said, after President Vladimir Putin authorised what he called a special military operation in the east.
“China is closely monitoring the latest situation. We call on all sides to exercise restraint to prevent the situation from getting out of control,” said Hua Chunying, spokesperson at China’s foreign ministry.
Addressing a daily media briefing in Beijing, Hua bridled at journalists’ characterisation of Russia’s actions. “This is perhaps a difference between China and you Westerners. We won’t go rushing to a conclusion,” she said.
