The Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused China on Sunday of helping Russia to disrupt the upcoming peace conference organized by Switzerland regarding the war in Ukraine.

Speaking at the first security conference in Asia, Zelensky said that China is pressuring other countries and their leaders not to attend the upcoming talks.

In a press conference at the Shangri-La Defense Forum, he stated, “Russia, using Chinese influence in the region, also using Chinese diplomats, is doing everything to obstruct the peace summit,” adding, “It is unfortunate that a large, independent, and strong country like China is a tool in the hands of (Russian leader Vladimir) Putin.”

China has taken what it claims is a neutral stance on the war, putting it at odds with Ukraine, the United States, and most of Europe. Its trade with Russia has grown, alleviating the economic impact of Western sanctions. U.S. and Ukrainian intelligence agencies, among others, say there's evidence that Chinese components end up in Russian weapons, even if China is not directly arming its neighbor.

The Swiss had hoped China would attend the peace conference scheduled for mid-June, but Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning indicated on Friday that this was unlikely. China is calling for a peace conference with equal participation from all parties, including Russia, which has not been invited.

Mao said, "There is still a clear gap between the meeting arrangements and the Chinese side's demands, as well as the general expectations of the international community." This makes it difficult for China to participate in the meeting.

The Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Zelensky's accusation.

The Ukrainian leader commented on the pressure China is exerting on others: "This is not limited to supporting Russia; it is essentially support for war."

In a speech earlier at the security conference, Zelensky urged senior defense officials to attend the upcoming talks in Switzerland, expressing disappointment over some countries' failure to commit to joining.

Chinese Defense Minister Wei Fenghe spoke in front of Zelensky at the Shangri-La conference, but was not in the room when Zelensky made his appeal.

Zelensky stated that Ukraine has proposals to present at the summit as a basis for peace, addressing nuclear security, food security, the release of prisoners of war, and the return of Ukrainian children kidnapped by Russia.

Time is running out, and children are growing up in Putin's land where they learn to hate their homeland.

Meanwhile, Zelensky said that Ukraine is "ready to hear various proposals and ideas that lead us... to an end to the war and a sustainable and just peace."

He added that the more participation there is, the more likely it is that Russia will have to listen, and that the global majority with its participation can ensure the implementation of what has already been agreed upon.

Zelensky said he plans to meet individually with the Prime Minister of Singapore and will urge him to participate personally in the talks in Switzerland.

He said through an interpreter, "The same goes for the countries in the region. We truly rely on your support for this summit and that you will be present in Switzerland."

Two senior officials in the Philippine government said Zelensky might travel from Singapore to Manila to invite President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to the summit in person.

One official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to comment, said Ukrainian officials informed the Philippines of Zelensky's intention to go, but the visit is uncertain as the plans of the Ukrainian president are constantly changing.

Defense Minister Ng Eng Hen, who shared the platform with Zelensky, did not mention whether leaders from his country would attend, but noted that Singapore condemned the invasion and provided Ukraine with military ambulances.

He said, “We stand with you, and I believe that your presence at this Shangri-La dialogue is a testament to what we all hope for, a rules-based order that ensures the security and survival of both large and small nations.”

Dong did not specifically mention the meetings in Switzerland in his speech at the forum, but said, “Regarding the Ukrainian crisis, China is working to promote peace talks with a responsible attitude.”

He added that China has not provided weapons to either side of the conflict, stating, “We have done nothing to fan the flames; we stand firmly for peace and dialogue.”

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin sat in the front row while Zelensky was speaking, and the two met on the sidelines of the conference. According to one American reader, Austin provided an update on American security assistance and reaffirmed the United States' commitments to Ukraine.

Austin said, “The courage of the Ukrainian forces and the resilience of the Ukrainian people have inspired us all.” “People around the world have rushed to help Ukraine defend itself, including countries across the Indian-Pacific.”