ISTANBUL 

China on Monday called for a cease-fire amid reports that outgoing US President Joe Biden has allowed Ukraine to use long-range missiles for “limited strikes” within Russian territory in a major policy shift.

“A cease-fire at an earlier date and a political solution are in the interests of all parties,” China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian told reporters in Beijing, referring to reports emerging from Washington.

“The immediate priority is to promote de-escalation as soon as possible,” said Lin, according to Chinese state media.

The decision to use long-range missiles by Kyiv follows reports of North Korea sending troops to support Moscow’s war efforts.

Previously, Washington had opposed Ukraine using the long-range Army Tactical Missile Systems against Russian targets, citing concerns over potential retaliation from Russia.

“China has consistently encouraged and supported efforts conducive to a peaceful resolution of the crisis and remains committed to playing a constructive role in achieving a political solution to the Ukraine crisis in its own way,” said the ministry spokesman.