Xi, cast as a peacemaker, plunges into Russia’s war in Ukraine

China’s supreme leader, Xi Jinping, has posed as a global statesman who has helped Saudi Arabia and Iran negotiate a deal restoring diplomatic ties while emphasizing the merits of “Chinese solutions and wisdom” in solving the world’s biggest security challenges world praised.

Now Xi is putting himself at the center of the war between Russia and Ukraine and is working to portray himself as a mediator who could cool down the protracted struggle.

The Chinese leader is expected to meet in person with Russian President Vladimir Putin next week, and talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy may follow. China has already proposed a peace settlement, although it does not address important details, such as whether Russian troops would withdraw. Announcing Xi’s visit to Russia on Friday, a Chinese official said it was “for the sake of peace.”