Skillful Chinese diplomacy has managed to transform an initial damage limitation strategy into one that will likely bring benefits to Beijing. China has won praise from both sides of the conflict without suffering any major costs. Although Beijing will not apply sanctions to Moscow for its actions, China has expressed disapproval of the Crimean referendum through its silence—probably the best Washington can hope for.

Although China’s response to the current crisis in Ukraine has been complex; China has increasing tilted toward Moscow. This decision has drawn praise from within China, but criticism from the international community.

As the tumultuous political situation in Ukraine continues to raise concerns amongst the international community, Zhao Mingwen lays out three reasons why the issue has gained prominence with Chinese citizens.

Could the current recovery of global financial markets be jeopardized by sanctions against Russia? As tensions between the West and Russia continue to heighten over the state of Crimea, Wu Zurong urges the United States to respect Russia’s concerns and embrace a policy of non-intervention.

While observing the Ukraine crisis, China should also bear in mind that both China and Russia are confronted with Western pressure. China should therefore promote strategic collaboration with Russia and counter Western interference, writes Chen Xiangyang.