WASHINGTON, D.C. (KNX) — President Joe Biden spoke Friday with President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Predominantly, the White House said, to discuss Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine and the consequences China could face if it moves to support Russia and President Vladimir Putin.
"[Biden] described the implications and consequences if China provides material support to Russia as it conducts brutal attacks against Ukrainian cities and civilians," the White House said in a statement, adding that both leaders
agreed on the importance of maintaining open lines of communication between their two countries.
Ahead of the Friday call, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said it would be an "opportunity to assess where President Xi stands."
Also ahead of the call, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian accused the United States of provoking Russia by assisting Ukraine with military arms.
"China has called for every effort to avoid civilian casualties all the time," Lijian said during a Friday briefing.
"Which do the civilians in Ukraine need more: food and sleeping bags or machine guns and artillery? It’s easy to answer."
As he focused on Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the White House said Biden outlined the views of the U.S. and its allies and partners on the developing crisis, and detailed the sanction efforts currently in play.
When discussing what will come next after the duo's discussion, the White House simply said both leaders have tasked their teams with following up "on [Friday's] conversation in the critical period ahead."
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