China's peace envoy's ties to Russia raise concerns amidst Moscow's capture of new Bakhmut areas.

China's senior diplomat Li Hui, a renowned Russophile and fluent Russian speaker, has been appointed as Beijing's "special representative" to help bring about a ceasefire and resolution to the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. While Ukraine and its Western allies are skeptical about China's claims to be a neutral peace broker, Moscow sees Li as "the best possible choice" to mediate talks with Ukraine. Li's deep knowledge of Russia is expected to help him play a positive role in facilitating talks for peace. However, to be successful in brokering peace, Li will have to bring both sides to the negotiating table, which seems far from happening at this point.