China is intent on facilitating an end to hostilities in Ukraine as soon as possible, the country's embassy in London said, dismissing attempts to "distort" Beijing's position on the conflict.

In an interview published yesterday, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned against "actively or passively" condoning Russia's military offensive in Ukraine and specifically mentioned China among those who had been "sitting on the fence" over the issue.

China's embassy in London responded with a written statement.

"China's principled position on the Ukraine issue has been objective, fair, transparent and consistent. The UK side must not misinterpret or distort it," wrote an embassy spokesperson.

READ MORE

The Answers Project: Can you measure intelligence?

Stop this war! Plea from a destroyed town

What are hypersonic missiles?

China has consistently affirmed that it recognizes Ukraine's sovereignty but also acknowledged the importance of addressing security concerns which Moscow cites as justification for its action.

"To solve the Ukraine crisis, the pressing priority now is for all sides to jointly support the parties involved to have dialogue and negotiation that will produce results and lead to peace. It is critical to cease hostilities as soon as possible, prevent the situation from worsening, and in particular, avoid more civilian casualties," the statement said.

China has been sending humanitarian aid to Ukraine as well as calling for both sides to stop fighting.