China's perspective on the Russian invasion of Ukraine has been what experts call a "checkered response". While Chinese authorities maintain they are neutral in the war and encourage peace negotiations, state media remains sympathetic to Russia, a significant ally for China. 

Why is Russia an important partnership China? Why have Chinese officials declined calling the conflict a war or an invasion? Where is the Russia-Chinese relationship going and how will neighboring countries respond in the region? Luckily, we have Dr. Elizabeth Wishnick, a Senior Research Scientist in the China and Indo-Pacific Security Affairs Division at CNA and Professor of Political Science at Montclair State University, to break it all down. Sophia Yan, China correspondent for The Telegraph and NüVoices Board member, hosts this week's episode.