As the four-year mark of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approaches, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held extensive talks today, reaffirming a strengthened bilateral relationship. The call underscores the growing alignment between Beijing and Moscow as both nations face international pressure and economic challenges.[[3]] This exchange occurred just hours before Xi also spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump, signaling a busy day of diplomacy for the Chinese leader and a potential effort to balance relations with both global powers.
Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a video conference call, reaffirming the importance of their bilateral relationship as a stabilizing force on the global stage amid increasing international volatility. The conversation took place shortly before the anticipated four-year anniversary of Russia’s military operation in Ukraine, which began in February 2022.
The leaders’ discussion highlights the deepening alignment between Beijing and Moscow as both nations navigate a complex geopolitical landscape and increased scrutiny from Western powers. The Kremlin reported the call lasted approximately one hour and 25 minutes and was conducted in a “friendly and trusting” atmosphere.
Moscow has increasingly relied on China for trade and economic support as it faces significant economic sanctions from the United States and its allies following the invasion of Ukraine. Beijing has refrained from condemning Russia’s actions or calling for a withdrawal from Ukrainian territory, leading some of Kyiv’s supporters to believe China is providing indirect support to Moscow.
According to China’s state broadcaster CCTV, President Xi told Putin that “the international situation has become increasingly turbulent since the beginning of this year.” He added that the two countries should ensure the stable development of China-Russia relations through deeper strategic coordination and a proactive role as major global powers.
Putin, referring to Xi as his “dear friend,” echoed similar sentiments, stating that the partnership between Moscow and Beijing remains a crucial factor in maintaining global stability. He described the strategic partnership and comprehensive cooperation between Russia and China as a model for international relations, though specific details of the strategic cooperation were not disclosed.
The Kremlin also revealed that the two leaders exchanged views on the United States, finding themselves largely in agreement. They also discussed escalating tensions in Iran and issues related to strategic security, particularly concerning the impending expiration of a key nuclear agreement between Russia and the United States.
Putin assured Xi that Russia would act responsibly following the agreement’s termination. The discussion underscores the growing coordination between Moscow and Beijing on key international security issues.
During the conversation, Xi Jinping reaffirmed China’s commitment to a United Nations-centered international system, emphasizing China’s permanent seat on the UN Security Council and its veto power. This stance comes amid concerns raised by former U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposals for a peace committee, which some view as an attempt to diminish the UN’s role on the world stage.
The call with Putin occurred just hours before Chinese media reported that Xi Jinping also spoke by phone with U.S. President Donald Trump, though details of that conversation have not yet been released. This series of diplomatic engagements suggests a concerted effort by China to build international alliances.
In recent months, China has been actively strengthening ties with numerous countries, seeking to forge a diplomatic coalition amid what is perceived as an unpredictable U.S. foreign policy. Leaders from France, Canada, Finland, and traditional allies like Uruguay have all visited Beijing in recent weeks. You can read more about the relationship at Channel News Asia.
