Chinese President Xi J touched down in Russia this week, immediately reinforcing his growing bond with Vladimir Putin in a grand show of unity. Their four-day visit featured military parades, formal speeches, and ceremonial fanfare—all designed to signal to the United States that this alliance is strong and unapologetic.
Xi didn’t come alone—nearly 30 world leaders attended—but his presence gave Putin exactly what he needed: public proof that Russia isn’t isolated, even as Western countries try to pressure and sideline it.
In a flashy Kremlin ceremony, Xi and Putin renewed their 2022 "no-limits" partnership, emphasizing their shared vision for a world where the U.S. doesn’t dominate the global order. Putin described the relationship as equal and beneficial, while Xi called him a “trusted old friend” and highlighted the stable, enduring nature of their ties.
Victory Day Becomes a Stage for Political Messaging
As part of the Victory Day celebrations marking the end of WWII, Putin leaned heavily into historical symbolism. He linked the Allied victory over Nazi Germany to his current war in Ukraine—again trying to frame it as a battle against modern fascism, a claim that’s widely rejected by Ukraine and its allies.
Standing beside Xi, Putin declared their shared commitment to defending "historical truth." Chinese troops made a notable appearance at the parade, joining forces with soldiers from countries like Vietnam, Belarus, and Egypt, sending a visual message of international support.
Analysts like Robert Tollast of the Royal United Services Institute suggest the event shows both leaders feel emboldened. Their actions signal that diplomatic patience with the West may be over.
China Quietly Supports Russia as Trump Tries to Reconnect
Putin’s government is under pressure from U.S. and EU sanctions that have weakened Russia’s economy. But China is helping: it’s been buying large volumes of Russian oil and selling tech parts like microchips, which are vital for Russian military equipment.
Xi emphasized the friendship as a natural continuation of their longstanding ties and positioned the partnership as a force supporting developing countries and promoting a more balanced global economy.
This visit wasn’t just for international optics—it was a domestic message too. Putin wants Russians to see that their country still has powerful allies. The appearance of leaders from Asia, Africa, and Latin America helps him project the image that Russia remains a global player, despite Western sanctions.
Trump Watches Closely While Trying to Cool Tensions with China
As Xi and Putin draw closer, former U.S. President Donald Trump is working on mending U.S.-China trade relations. He recently acknowledged that tariffs on Chinese goods, which currently reach up to 145%, might be reduced. “It can’t go any higher,” he admitted, adding that upcoming trade talks in Switzerland are expected to be constructive.
Xi has called Putin his “best friend” since 2019, and their relationship has only deepened. Putin recently referred to Xi as a “dear friend,” showcasing just how close the two leaders have become
