China envoy to UN said Thursday, “situation in Ukraine at a 'critical' moment,” adding that “China is 'highly concerned.”

“China believes that the door to a peaceful solution to the Ukraine issue has not been completely shut, and should not be shut,” the country’s ambassador to the UN said.

Further comments

“It is currently necessary to avoid intensifying the conflict.”

“China will continue to promote talks in its own way.”

Market reaction

The S&P 500 futures still lose 2.17% on the day. AUD/USD erodes 0.77% to trade around 0.7175, as of writing. Gold is testing offers at $1,950, higher by 1.50% so far.