China has called for calm and dialogue following a drone incident near Poland's border, warning against escalation amid heightened tensions linked to the Ukraine crisis. Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting on Friday, Chinese Deputy Permanent Representative Geng Shuang emphasized the need to 'avoid misunderstanding and misjudgment' after Poland reported airspace violations this week.
'Any military clash could trigger broader instability,' Geng stated, noting the incident resulted from spillover effects of the Ukraine conflict. Poland's military reported shooting down drones overnight Tuesday to Wednesday, with NATO and EU officials suggesting Russian involvement – a claim Moscow denies.
Geng reiterated China's position of promoting peace talks to resolve the Ukraine crisis, stating: 'The international community needs mutual accommodation rather than military confrontation.' The envoy reaffirmed Beijing's commitment to working with global partners toward a political solution, while urging adherence to UN Charter principles.
The incident highlights growing concerns about regional security risks as the Ukraine conflict enters its 21st month. Analysts suggest China's repeated calls for de-escalation reflect its balancing act as a major power with economic ties to both Eastern Europe and Russia.
Poland, a NATO member bordering Ukraine, has heightened its defense posture since Russia's 2022 military operation. Belarus – which shares borders with both Poland and Ukraine – has not commented on the latest developments.
