During a discussion at the Munich Security Conference, U.S. official M. Whitaker stated that China has the ability to end the ongoing war in Ukraine with a simple phone call to Russian President Vladimir Putin. He emphasized that China could cease its purchase of Russian oil and gas, which he claims are pivotal for sustaining Russia's military efforts. Whitaker's remarks reflect ongoing concerns regarding China's influence in the conflict, particularly as the country has developed closer partnerships with Russia since the war began.

The discussion highlighted the critical role that China plays in supplying Russia with military components, such as drones, and reiterated that the alliance between China and Russia has strengthened during this crisis. According to reports, China has become the largest buyer of Russian crude oil, further entrenching its economic ties with Russia. This relationship has implications for the global economy and energy markets, as any shift in China's stance or its engagement with Russia could have significant repercussions.

Despite this, China has expressed a desire to play a 'constructive' role in resolving the conflict, as noted in recent meetings between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Ukrainian counterpart, Andriy Sybiha, during the Munich conference. Wang Yi's offer of humanitarian assistance to Ukraine illustrates a potential diplomatic pathway that China may pursue, despite its firm ties to Russia. The complexity of the geopolitical landscape suggests that while China could exert considerable influence, the path to peace remains fraught with challenges and competing interests.