China refrains from condemning Russia despite intensifying Ukraine attack

China stuck to its message on Friday of refusing to call Russia's action in Ukraine an "invasion" or criticise Moscow despite intensifying assaults from Russia's military in the Eastern European country which are leading to growing casualties.

China reiterated that it believes in respecting the territorial integrity of all countries, but said it sees the Ukraine issue as having its own complex and special historical background.

"We understand Russia's legitimate concerns on...