China defends Russia after Bucha massacre: 'Accusations should be based on facts'

China said on Wednesday that "accusations must be based on facts" when referring to the massacre in the Ukrainian city of Bucha, where more than 400 civilians have been found dead in the streets following the withdrawal of Russian troops in recent days.

"The reports and images of civilian deaths in Bucha are deeply disturbing, but the truth must be ascertained. Humanitarian issues should not be politicized, and any accusations should be based on the facts," said Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian, according to Infobae. 

"All parties should show restraint and avoid baseless accusations before the results of the investigation are delivered," Lijian added. "China supports all efforts to help ease the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. We will continue to work with the international community to prevent any harm to civilians."

The images of corpses lying in the streets of this city located on the outskirts of Kyiv have caused outrage in several countries.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, said on Monday that she was "horrified" by the images of corpses discovered in Bucha after the withdrawal of Russian troops.

"I am horrified by the images of civilians lying dead in the streets and in makeshift graves in the city of Bucha in Ukraine," Bachelet said in a statement quoted by Infobae.

In addition to the efforts to identify the bodies to inform the families of the deceased, Bachelet called for an investigation to determine the causes of the deaths.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken condemned the massacre on Sunday. "We strongly condemn apparent atrocities by Kremlin forces in Bucha and across Ukraine," he tweeted. "We are pursuing accountability using every tool available, documenting and sharing information to hold accountable those responsible."

Russia denied allegations that its troops have killed civilians in Bucha, where at least 300 residents were killed.

The Chinese regime has not condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine so far. Xi Jinping's government, however, has called for "respect for the territorial integrity of all countries."

Beijing has also insisted on promoting dialogue and peace talks.