The German government has told the Chinese ambassador in Berlin that it disapproves of China training Russian soldiers.
“China must be aware that this Russian war of aggression against Ukraine threatens our core interests,” German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said on the sidelines of a visit to Brazil on Friday, confirming that the Foreign Office had requested the Chinese ambassador for an urgent conversation the previous day.
While such a request is considered a sign of clear diplomatic protest, it does not yet constitute a formal summons.
Reports that Russian soldiers were being trained in China have been read in Berlin “with great concern,” said Wadephul.
He said Europe was prepared to defend its core interests.
“This war must be brought to an end, and there must truly be no single measure, including from outside, to prolong this war,” he said.
Wadephul said the German government had held “intensive, but also very open” discussions with the Chinese ambassador. “We will also have to continue our dialogue with the Chinese side, because we cannot accept any ambiguities on their part.”
China is considered an important backer for Moscow. While Beijing maintains it is neutral in the war, Western observers believe China could end the conflict within 14 days if it stopped payment flows and the supply of chips and electronics to Russia.
Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Beijing for two days in May, where he was greeted by President Xi Jinping as a “long-time friend,” with both leaders agreeing to deepen military cooperation.