Taipei - China has proposed a 12-point plan to end the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, as the conflict enters its second year. The proposal, which includes a call for a cease-fire, peace talks, and an end to sanctions against Russia, was announced by China's top diplomat at a security conference in Munich, Germany.

The plan aims to position China as a mediator in the conflict, despite accusations of providing non-lethal assistance that supports Russia's war effort. The United States has expressed skepticism about China's neutrality, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken suggesting that China may be considering providing lethal support to Russia. China has denied these allegations and called them a "smear" without evidence.

The 12-point proposal calls for the protection of prisoners of war and civilians, the upholding of the sovereignty of all countries, and the condemnation of a "Cold War mentality." It also criticizes sanctions on Russia and places responsibility for sanctions on other "relevant countries" without naming them. The proposal, however, contains few specifics and is being viewed with skepticism by some observers.

China's proposal is being seen as an attempt to maintain positive relations with both Russia and the West while positioning itself as a neutral player in the conflict. China has largely provided rhetorical and political support to Russia, helping to prevent efforts to condemn Moscow at the United Nations. However, it has not provided public evidence that it is currently supplying arms to Russia.

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine began in February 2022, when Russia invaded Ukraine, claiming that Western governments were to blame for the invasion. The conflict has re-energized Western alliances viewed by Beijing and Moscow as rivals. China's proposal echoes Russian claims and suggests that other countries should stop abusing unilateral sanctions and do their share in de-escalating the Ukraine crisis.

While some have criticized the proposal for lacking specifics, others see it as a positive step towards ending the conflict. Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov expressed doubt about China's willingness to send lethal aid to Russia but welcomed the proposal's call for a cease-fire and peace talks.

The proposal comes at a time when tensions between the United States and China are high, with both countries accusing each other of various offenses. China's proposal is likely to be viewed with suspicion by the United States and other Western countries, who may see it as an attempt by China to increase its influence in the region.

In conclusion, China's proposal to end the conflict between Russia and Ukraine is a significant development in the ongoing conflict. While some have expressed skepticism about China's neutrality, the proposal is a positive step towards ending the conflict and achieving peace in the region. Whether the proposal will be accepted and implemented by all parties remains to be seen, but it is a welcome development in a conflict that has caused significant damage and loss of life.