Did the Xi–Zelensky call open a diplomatic channel between China and Ukraine?
A look back at the phone call of 26 April 2023 and the announcements that followed, alongside Latvia's earlier pledge of Stinger missiles.
What did the first call between Xi Jinping and Volodymyr Zelenskyy produce? Looking back at 27 April 2023, the day after it took place, the main outcome was practical: both countries announced they would send representatives to establish a diplomatic presence after the conversation on 26 April 2023.
The Chinese leader, Xi Jinping, called Ukraine's President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The call was part of the wider story of China and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the announcements about dispatching representatives followed it.
Military aid in the background
The call came days after another development in Ukraine's international relations. On 21 April 2023, Latvian Defence Minister Ināra Mūrniece announced that Latvia would send all of its FIM-92 Stinger missile systems to Ukraine. She spoke after a meeting with NATO allies at Ramstein Air Base in Germany.
Together, the two reports showed Ukraine pursuing contacts on two tracks in the final week of April 2023: new diplomatic engagement with Beijing and continued military support from partners.
