The Chinese Foreign Ministry calls on all parties to the conflict in Ukraine for a ceasefire and a peaceful settlement through dialogue, the ministry commented on Russian President Vladimir Putin's address on referendums in Donbass as well as partial mobilization, TASS reported.

Earlier, the Russian president said that partial mobilization is announced in Russia from Wednesday, September 21. The corresponding decree has already been signed. This decision was taken due to the need to preserve Russia's sovereignty and integrity, the head of state explained, stressing that only those Russians who are in the reserve will be subject to conscription.

Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu explained: only those Russians who already have combat experience will be drafted from the reserve. This category will also include people with military occupation necessary for the army. According to estimates of the Defense Ministry, 300,000 reservists will be drafted in total.