As Ukraine war rages, China keeps its head down

Multiple questions focus on whether – or how much – China will come to the aid of its embattled partner as Russia is hammered by Western sanctions, international criticism and fierce resistance in Ukraine.

China-watcher Alex Neill, who specializes in the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and wider Indo-Pacific security issues, spoke to Asia Times about the military ramifications of the ongoing war for China and Taiwan.

Neill – who held senior positions in defense think tank RUSI in London and IISS in Singapore and who now heads Alexander Neill Consulting – talks about China’s overall stance on the conflict, sanctions and reports Moscow asked Beijing for military support.