September 19, 2025Journal of Asian and African Studies2 citationsOpen Access

China’s Strategic Threat Narratives: An Ideationalist Critical Security Perspective on the Russian–Ukraine War

AAAktoty AitzhanovaUniversity of Antwerp SWStefanie WeilUniversity of Antwerp CKChristian KaunertUniversity of South Wales

Key Points

China portrays itself as neutral while supporting Russia’s securitization narrative, indicating strategic flexibility.
In analyzing 117 official statements, discourse analysis shows China's alignment with Western ideas for its benefit.
The findings highlight China's ideational power to reshape narratives and challenge established norms in international relations.
This dual strategy informs ongoing debates about China's role in global security and its image as a desecuritizing actor.

Abstract

This article examines China’s political discourse on the Russian invasion of Ukraine from February 2022 to March 2023 through an ideationalist security framework. Using securitization theory and discourse analysis, we analyzed 117 official Chinese statements. We find that China supports Russia’s securitization narrative while aligning with Western ideas when strategically beneficial. Using concepts like “Limitless Partnership” and “UN Principles,” China portrays itself as neutral while actively reshaping narratives about the global order. This dual strategy reveals China’s ideational power to reinterpret established norms, challenge its image as a desecuritizing actor, and inform debates on its international security role.

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