Xi, on his 11th trip to Russia, will attend 80th‑anniversary Victory Day events on 9 May and sign new economic and energy deals cementing the countries’ “no‑limits” partnership.
“Deepening China‑Russia ties is a natural continuation of our traditional friendship,” Xi said, adding that both sides would “promote a multipolar world and greater fairness.”
Putin replied that Beijing and Moscow “are closer than ever.”
Ukrainian drone strikes shut Moscow airports briefly on Wednesday, prompting a three‑day Russian ceasefire that Kyiv said was holding as of Thursday morning.
Xi’s plane, escorted by Russian jets, landed amid heightened air defenses.
United front against ‘hegemony’
In a Russian‑media essay, Xi warned against “unilateralism and bullying,” echoing complaints about U.S. power.
His visit highlights the failure of U.S. hopes to draw Russia away from China as Western sanctions push Moscow deeper into Beijing’s economic embrace.
Taiwan tensions
Meanwhile, Taiwan President Lai Ching‑te urged Europe to resist “a new totalitarian group,” comparing Taiwan’s plight to pre‑WWII Europe.
Xi, in turn, thanked Russia for backing Beijing’s one‑China stance and opposing “Taiwan independence,” fueling Western concern that Beijing might eventually use force.
Analysts say Xi’s presence gives Putin symbolic backing while ensuring China retains a sanctioned partner for energy and raw materials.
“Each side needs the other in its standoff with Washington,” said Vasily Kashin of Russia’s Far East Institute.
(jh)
Source: Reuters, The Guardian, Euronews