China's position on the Ukraine issue is consistent and clear, and an early ceasefire and pursuit of a political solution are in the interests of all parties. Promoting a de-escalation of the situation as soon as possible is the top priority,

France, which has provided long-range missiles to Ukraine, on Monday signalled allowing Kyiv to strike military targets inside Russia remained an option on the table. "We openly said this was an option that we would consider if it was to allow to strike a target from where Russia is currently aggressing Ukrainian territory.