Beijing is closely observing Russia’s crisis in Ukraine, according to US Central Intelligence Agency Director William Burns, and it is affecting China’s calculations on Taiwan.

Burns, speaking at a Financial Times event in Washington, said China’s leadership has been struck by Ukraine’s vigorous resistance to Russia’s incursion as well as the economic price Russia is experiencing. “These are things they’re carefully weighing,” Burns added.

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He did warn, though, that it would not change China’s long-term objectives.

“I don’t believe for a second that this has weakened Beijing’s determination to seize control of Taiwan over time,” Burns added. “However, I believe it is hurting their decision-making about how and when to proceed.”