Russian President Vladimir Putin warmly greeted Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the Kremlin on Monday as fighting continues in Ukraine. This meeting highlights the failure of Western efforts to isolate Moscow due to the conflict. Xi’s first international trip demonstrated Beijing’s diplomatic confidence since he was re-elected earlier this month, boosting Putin’s political prospects just weeks after an international arrest warrant was issued for him for war crimes in Ukraine.
The two significant powers view Xi’s three-day visit as a chance to strengthen their “unlimited friendship.” Besides serving as an ally against perceived U.S. aggression, the dominance of global affairs, and unfair punishments for their human rights records, China relies on Russian oil and gas to fuel its energy-hungry economy. As part of the five permanent U.N. Security Council members, both countries have participated in joint military exercises. There are indications that China may provide weapons to Russia for its fight in Ukraine, but no concrete evidence has emerged.
During their meeting in the Kremlin, Putin and Xi exchanged pleasantries and referred to each other as “dear friends.” Putin praised China’s recent development and expressed interest in further strengthening ties. He also welcomed China’s proposals for a political settlement in Ukraine, stating that Russia is open to discussions.
Moscow and Beijing accused Washington of isolating them and hindering their development as they challenged U.S. regional and global leadership. A broad front against Putin has yet to be established despite U.S. and allied efforts. In a United Nations vote condemning Moscow, 141 countries voted against Russia, but several G-20 members, including India, China, and South Africa, abstained. Many African nations have also avoided openly criticizing Russia.
After an announcement that Putin would be charged with abducting children from Ukraine, Xi made a trip to The Hague for a meeting with world leaders. Though overshadowed by the Ukraine conflict, Beijing portrays Xi’s visit as part of routine diplomatic exchanges, providing few details about the trip’s goals.
Beijing has recently succeeded in brokering talks between Iran and its main Middle Eastern rival, Saudi Arabia, leading Xi to call for China to play a more significant role in global affairs management. Although China and Russia boast a “no-limits” partnership, Beijing has pursued a China First policy, avoiding actions that could worsen relations with Western countries. However, it has not condemned Moscow’s aggression, criticized Western sanctions, and accused NATO and the U.S. of provoking Putin’s military action.
Tensions between Moscow and the West have made Russia increasingly reliant on Beijing. China stands to benefit from the situation by obtaining cheap Russian energy resources. Last month, China called for a cease-fire and peace talks between Kyiv and Moscow, but this overture was ultimately unsuccessful. The Kremlin has welcomed China’s peace plan, but U.S. State Secretary Antony Blinken said Russia’s regained strength and could resume its offensive if any peace plan left its forces in Ukraine.
As Ukraine remains steadfast in its demands for peace, its allies are increasing support. The U.S. will send $350 million in weapons and equipment to Ukraine, including ammunition, fuel tanker trucks, and riverine boats. Although Russia, China, the U.S., and Ukraine do not recognize the International Criminal Court’s authority, the court’s announcement against Putin has damaged his international reputation.
The Kremlin and Beijing continue to strengthen their partnership, further challenging the West’s attempts to isolate Russia due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. With Xi Jinping’s visit to the Kremlin, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to cooperation and mutual support in the face of perceived U.S. aggression and domination.
Despite the strong bond between China and Russia, some analysts argue that Russia’s growing dependence on China could result in an unequal partnership. The current tensions between Moscow and the West allow Beijing to secure cheaper Russian energy resources, giving China a strategic advantage.
Meanwhile, Ukraine and its allies remain resolute in their demands for peace. Kyiv officials insist that any peace agreement must include withdrawing Russian occupation forces from Ukrainian territory, following international law and the UN Charter. This would ensure the restoration of Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
Chinese Foreign Ministry officials urged the International Criminal Court to “respect the immunity of heads of state” and “avoid politicization and double standards” after the International Criminal Court announced plans to trial Putin. ICC prosecutor and three judges have also been arrested by Russia’s Investigative Committee for their role in issuing arrest warrants for Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova, claiming their prosecution is “unlawful.”
As the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, the deepening partnership between China and Russia remains a significant concern for the West. With the U.S. and its allies struggling to build a united front against Putin, the strengthened bond between Moscow and Beijing could further complicate efforts to resolve the conflict and address global security issues.
