China's special envoy for Eurasian affairs appealed on Friday to other governments to “stop sending weapons to the battlefield” and hold peace talks but gave no indication that his trip to the region made any progress toward a settlement.

Li Hui’s appeal came as Washington and its European allies are ramping up supplies of missiles, tanks and other weapons to Ukrainian forces.

President Xi Jinping’s government says it is neutral and wants to serve as a mediator.

“China believes that if we really want to put an end to war, to save lives and realise peace, it is important for us to stop sending weapons to the battlefield, or else the tensions will only spiral up,” Li told reporters.

The special envoy also said that he believes neither Ukraine nor Russia have "firmly" shut the door to talks, despite difficulties in getting negotiations going now.

"The risk of escalation of the Russia-Ukraine war is still high," Li said, adding that all sides must take concrete measures to "cool down the situation" ensure the safety of nuclear facilities.

"As long as it's conducive to easing the situation, China is willing to do anything," he added.

Li visited Ukraine, Russia, Poland, France, Germany and the European Union headquarters during a trip from May 15 to 28. (AP/Reuters)
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Last updated: 2023-06-02 HKT 17:28