The Russia-Ukraine conflict undermines the prospects for prosperity and security around the world — and that includes China, whose economic development recent years had depended upon a stable external strategic environment.

China-Russia ties have upper limits, which are defined by the interests of the Chinese people. Relations are constrained to areas that do no harm. No relationship should be allowed to take the people’s interests hostage.

Two classic conundrums are at play in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, both of which are making the problem worse and could lead to a new cold war. China’s approach provides a way out.

Now that the Western powers have imposed sweeping economic and financial sanctions on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, many are asking whether China’s non-participation will undermine their effectiveness. One should also ask whether the rich countries can do more for the poor people in many developing countries who are the collateral damage of the war and the sanctions.

A look at history reveals why Russia feels threatened by the eastward expansion of the European Union and NATO. The war may end with Ukraine becoming a neutral country that serves as a buffer zone for Russia.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has been met with sanctions from the West, along with key regional economies in Asia. And Putin’s actions will have major repercussions on Russia’s place in the world, including its previously promising pivot towards Asia.

The crisis in Ukraine grows worse as fighting rages on in what is sure to be one of this decade’s defining episodes. Whatever the outcome is, the result will drastically shift the landscape of the international community.

Talks between Russia and Ukraine regarding a cease-fire are a first step. However, to resolve the deep-rooted differences and bring about long-term peace and stability in Europe and Russia, talks between Russia and NATO countries must follow.

The Russia-Ukraine war was not warranted. Ukrainians despair for peace. Russia needs security. China offers development. But the U.S., NATO and the far-right Ukrainian paramilitaries seek something very different.

Different security concepts held by Russia, Europe and the United States lie at the core of the crisis and won’t be easy to reconcile. As America promotes fear of an imminent invasion, Russia has remained poised, and Europe — which has ceded its security to the U.S. —simply hopes for the best.