who is Li Hui, the mediator sent to Ukraine to speed up the “political settlement” of the war

As the preparation for a Ukrainian counter-offensive in the spring intensifies, Beijing sends a senior diplomat to mediate with kyiv and its European allies. Li Hui, former Chinese ambassador to Russia, is going to Ukraine on Tuesday May 16, before going to Poland, France, Germany and, finally, Russia. Objective: to discuss a “political settlement” of the war.

>> War in Ukraine: can China play the role of “mediator” despite its ties with Russia?

At 70, Li Hui is considered one of Russia’s greatest Chinese specialists. He was ambassador to Moscow for ten years, between 2009 and 2019. He is the highest-ranking Chinese diplomat to visit Ukraine since the start of the Russian invasion. He is also Deputy Foreign Minister and Special Representative for Eurasian Affairs. A trump card for Beijing, wishing to mark its commitment to peace, as stated by Wang Wenbin, the spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “The Chinese representative’s visit is another manifestation of China’s commitment to promoting peace and talks. It clearly shows that China stands firmly on the side of peace.“

Beijing tries un three-cushion billiards which aims above all to find a way out for Moscow, as Ukraine prepares its counter-offensive, the results of which will undoubtedly influence future negotiations. It is also a question of calming the game with the countries of the European Union while the Commission is considering sanctions against Chinese companies accused of supporting the Russian war effort.