China is wildcard in Russia-Ukraine war

Washington is focused on Chinese President Xi Jinping as President Biden grapples with Russian President Vladimir Putin’s violent military campaign against Ukraine.

Biden administration officials are calling on Xi and his government to join other nations in condemning Russia, while warning China of consequences if it tries to evade export controls on Moscow.

China is viewed as a key player because of its influence with Russia, which is expected to grow as Moscow finds itself further isolated by Western sanctions.