TikTok suspends new content in Russia
AxiosAPR 2022
China has been enabling, cheerleading, and protecting Russia's brutality so far. However, the bite of economic sanctions and a loss of face is making Beijing think twice. The PRC doesn't want to be viewed as a global pariah.
China has a vital role on the global stage to help resolve this conflict. From the economy, to energy, to supply chains and humanitarian issues, the whole world has much to lose from this war. China will stand alongside the EU, US, Russia, and NATO to support a safe and stable Europe.
There's a major disconnect. China is positioning itself as a neutral peace broker for its international audience, but its domestic and social media messaging is deeply aligned with the Kremlin. PRC and Russian outlets are rampantly amplifying the identical talking points and conspiracy theories. For their massive audiences at home, Xi and Putin are on the same page.