Xi aims to refute allegations of assisting Russia in the Ukraine crisis in Europe.

In Europe, Xi seeks to refute allegations of supporting Russia in Ukraine.

"China isn't responsible for instigating the crisis nor a direct participant, although they've been actively working towards peace. Avoiding blame and fostering a new Cold War is something they oppose. Trade tensions and suspicions of China's ambitions increased in the aftermath of the Ukraine conflict, as Beijing didn't condemn the invasion and instead became a vital support for the significantly sanctioned Russian economy.

Xi's trip to Europe, his first in five years, is perceived as an opportunity for the leader to share China's stance on the situation directly with European leaders, while attempting to create a gap between Washington's stance and that of its allies in Europe.

The tour will also include visits to Serbia and Hungary, with the Beijing visit to Serbia coinciding with the 25th anniversary of NATO's bombing of the Chinese embassy in the city that resulted in three deaths.

"The Chinese people cherish peace, but will never allow the reoccurrence of historical tragedies. The bond between the people of both nations formed by shared suffering serves as a common ground for mutual advancement," Xi wrote in an article for Serbian media in preparation for his visit.

The attack, which the US considered an accident, was part of NATO's broader bombing campaign in the region during the spring of 1999 and fueled China's deep animosity for the alliance - an emotion that led it closer to Russia.

Concerns About Chinese Support for Russia's War

Xi's trip to the region is happening while US officials have recently voiced their concerns to Chinese counterparts about dual-use goods exported to Russia. They claim these goods enable Russia to grow its defense industry as it continues its war in Ukraine.

The assistance includes considerable quantities of machine tools, drone and turbojet engines, technology for cruise missiles, microelectronics, and nitrocellulose that Russia uses for weapon propellant.

Beijing maintains that its trade with Russia is part of normal commercial relations, and it denies providing weapons to conflicting parties. It has not been accused of supplying lethal weapons, but rather products with military applications.

During their meetings, Macron reported that Xi reasserted a commitment he had made a year ago not to supply weapons or aid to Moscow and to strictly regulate the export of military-use goods.

"The depth and quality of our conversations on this subject reassures me," Macron said at their press conference.

He also thanked Xi for consenting to visit France before Putin's anticipated trip to Beijing in the coming weeks, allowing Europe to clearly convey its thoughts on Russia's war in Ukraine and readiness to aid Kyiv "as long as necessary."

[Xi and Macron also called for an international Olympics truce during the Summer Games in Paris, meaning a halt in all conflicts during the event.The Chinese leader also urged for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas battle on Monday, with the joint statement asserting the necessity of "achieving an immediate and lasting ceasefire," as well as ensuring humanitarian aid, protection of civilians, and "immediate and unconditional" liberation of hostages. ]

Xi's trip to Europe happens amid ongoing speculation about escalating war, as Putin ordered Russian troops to rehearse deploying tactical nuclear weapons as part of military exercises to counter what he called "Western threats."

Following her meeting with Xi and Macron, von der Leyen stated that Xi played a significant role in defusing Russia's irresponsible nuclear threats and expressed faith in his continued efforts to pacify Russia's wartime actions "amidst the ongoing nuclear threats by Russia."

"We need China to use its influence on Russia to bring an end to Russia's war against Ukraine," she said, adding that "additional measures" are required to prevent the transfer of dual-use goods to Russia "that end up on the battlefield."

While claiming impartiality and aiming to play the role of intermediary, China has thus far given little indication of using its leverage with Russia to facilitate a resolution favorable to Europe."

Here are some highlights from Xi's visit to Europe.

Highlights

Xi reiterated his commitment to not providing weapons and aid to Moscow and strictly regulating the export of military-use goods.
Macron reaffirmed his gratitude for Xi visiting France before Putin's trip to China to share Europe's perspective.
Macron and Xi advocated for a global Olympics truce.
Xi called for an immediate truce in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
European officials emphasized the need for further action to curtail the sale of dual-use goods to Russia that end up being used in the war.
von der Leyen expressed confidence in Xi's role in easing Russian nuclear threats.

He's also seems to be objecting to peace talks that exclude Russia, like the one coming up in Switzerland next month. China backs attempts that are acknowledged by both Russia and Ukraine, with "fair and impartial discussions of all possible peace proposals during the meeting," he mentioned.

CNN reporters Shawn Deng and Wayne Chang helped with this story.