WASHINGTON, November 18. /TASS/. China opposes any steps that could lead to aggravations in the Ukrainian conflict and hike tensions, Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in the United States told TASS.

In response to a TASS correspondent’s question to comment on US President Joe Biden’s decision to allow the use of American long-range weapons to strike inside Russia, Liu said responded: "China's position on the Ukraine crisis is consistent and clear."

"China is committed to promoting peace talks and opposes any move that could escalate tensions and escalate the regional situation," the diplomat said.

Liu Pengyu stressed that Beijing stands for a peaceful and diplomatic settlement of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

"Instead of pouring fuel on fire and escalating the war, relevant parties should strive to create conditions for a political settlement of the Ukraine crisis through dialogue and negotiation and make practical efforts to maintain peace," he added.

The New York Times reported on November 17 that US President Joe Biden had allowed to use US-supplied long-range missiles, known as the Army Tactical Missile Systems, or ATACMS, to strike inside Russia.

Later that day, France’s Le Figaro reported that France and the United Kingdom followed Biden’s lead and also allowed to use their weapons to strike inside Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on September 12 that the potential decision to use Western long-range missile against Russia would mean the United States’ and other NATO countries’ direct involvement in the conflict in Ukraine. This step would change the very nature of the conflict and Russia would have to make relevant decisions proceeding from the threats it will face, the president warned.