New York:Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has voiced hope that U.S. President Donald Trump could play a role in persuading Chinese President Xi Jinping to shift Beijing’s stance on Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Speaking after his meetings on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Zelenskiy said that China appeared reluctant to push for an end to the conflict, but argued that Beijing’s influence over Moscow could be decisive. He suggested that Trump’s personal relationship with Xi might be used to encourage China to adopt a more active role in pressuring Russia.

The appeal comes as Trump has sharpened his rhetoric in support of Ukraine. The U.S. president declared that Ukraine can win back all of its territory lost to Russia, including areas seized since the 2022 invasion. His remarks marked a stronger stance than earlier statements that emphasized ending the war quickly, sometimes without directly addressing Ukraine’s territorial claims.

Despite the change in tone, there has been no immediate indication of a shift in U.S. policy, such as new sanctions or significant increases in military aid. Analysts note that Trump’s comments remain largely rhetorical, aimed at reassuring allies while avoiding firm commitments.

China continues to maintain that it is neutral in the conflict, denying that it supplies lethal aid to Russia. Beijing has sought to portray itself as a potential mediator, though its growing economic and political ties with Moscow have fueled skepticism in the West. Earlier this month, Portugal’s prime minister urged Xi to use his influence to push for peace, underscoring Europe’s view that China is uniquely positioned to pressure Russia.

For Ukraine, securing Chinese cooperation remains a key diplomatic goal, as Russia’s war effort has been bolstered by trade and technology links with Beijing. However, analysts caution that China is unlikely to abandon its strategic alignment with Moscow, which serves as a counterweight to U.S. influence on the global stage.

While Zelenskiy hopes Trump can sway Xi, experts believe any substantial change in Beijing’s approach would require complex negotiations and alignment of broader international interests, rather than quick interventions.