“From the outset [of the Russian operation in Ukraine], my president [Chinese leader Xi Jinping] presented a comprehensive package based on four pillars: sovereignty and territorial integrity, the UN Charter, legitimate security concerns of all countries, and all efforts conducive to the peaceful resolution. Unfortunately, the legitimate security concerns are neglected. Academic discussions, including those involving [US economist] Jeffrey Sachs, have highlighted that this war could have been avoided with a simple understanding: no Ukraine’s NATO membership. You cannot clap with one hand. When I share these observations, some westerners often say I am supporting Russia,” the ambassador said.