Chinese President Xi Jinping has promised to elevate China-Russia relations to unprecedented levels in the coming year. This declaration came during a video conference with Russian President Vladimir Putin, held just hours after Donald Trump’s inauguration as the President of the United States.
The annual conference between the two leaders highlighted their growing personal rapport and the strengthening partnership between their nations. This relationship has deepened significantly, particularly as Russia continues its military campaign in Ukraine.
Xi emphasized the importance of enhancing “strategic coordination” and “practical cooperation” while navigating “external uncertainties” through the stability of China-Russia ties. According to China’s Foreign Ministry, he expressed his commitment to guide the bilateral relationship to new heights.
Putin reciprocated by praising the expanding trade between the two countries, which reached record levels last year. He also stressed their shared vision of reshaping a global order they believe is overly influenced by the United States.
“We stand united in advocating for a more just, multipolar world order,” Putin stated, according to a Kremlin report. He added that their joint efforts are a stabilizing force in global affairs.
A Shift in Dynamics Under Trump
The call occurred as both Xi and Putin closely observed the implications of Trump’s return to the White House. Trump has expressed interest in re-engaging with both leaders, hinting at potential meetings early in his presidency. However, it remains uncertain whether his administration will take a conciliatory or hardline stance toward these two geopolitical rivals.
Xi had previously spoken with Trump before the latter’s inauguration. During that conversation, the two leaders reportedly discussed various topics, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Xi later shared details of this call with Putin during their meeting, according to Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov.
Navigating a Diplomatic Triangle
Trump’s personal admiration for both Xi and Putin is well-documented, but his administration is expected to pursue concessions from each leader. Trump has already signaled his intent to address economic imbalances with China and to push for an end to Russia’s war in Ukraine.
On Tuesday, Trump mentioned the possibility of imposing additional sanctions on Russia if Putin does not engage in meaningful peace talks. He also expressed hope that Xi could leverage his influence to help broker a resolution to the conflict, noting that he urged the Chinese leader to “get it settled” during their recent conversation.
European leaders have long viewed Xi as a potential intermediary in the Ukraine conflict. Trump’s stated goal of ending the war may provide new opportunities for China to play a significant role, though this could create challenges for Beijing.
Balancing Interests
Xi has carefully cultivated a dual narrative: positioning China as a potential peace broker while maintaining close ties with Russia. Although Western nations accuse Beijing of indirectly supporting Moscow’s war effort through the export of dual-use goods, Xi continues to deny these claims.
At the same time, Xi is likely to prioritize maintaining strong ties with Putin. The two leaders signed a “no limits” partnership shortly before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and Xi sees Putin as an indispensable ally amid escalating tensions with the West.
Historical Ties and Commemorations
The Kremlin and China’s Foreign Ministry reports did not specify whether the Ukraine conflict was a focal point of Tuesday’s discussion. Instead, the readouts highlighted plans to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the allied victory in World War II, a shared historical milestone for both nations.
Putin and Xi have invited each other to attend events marking the anniversary, with ceremonies scheduled in Russia in May and in China in September.
As the global landscape shifts under new U.S. leadership, the relationship between Xi and Putin is poised to play a critical role in shaping the geopolitical narrative. Both leaders appear committed to strengthening their partnership while navigating the complex dynamics of international diplomacy.
