Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Moscow on May 7 for a four-day state visit to attend the 80th anniversary celebrations of the victory over fascism and hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The visit, which includes the May 9 military parade, underscores the “deeply strategic” relationship between the two nations, aimed at countering global “hegemonism,” particularly in response to the U.S.’s “America First” policies. Xi, referred to by Putin as the “main guest,” emphasizes the need for China and Russia to jointly oppose “hegemony and power politics,” reflecting their united front amid shifting global alliances. This visit highlights the two authoritarian states’ efforts to bolster unity in a reconfiguring geopolitical landscape.
The visit takes place against the backdrop of the U.S. imposing 145% tariffs on Chinese goods and intensifying Western sanctions on Russia, pushing both nations to deepen economic and political cooperation. Bilateral trade reached a record $237 billion in 2024, with China becoming Russia’s primary supplier of oil, gas, vehicles, and electronics, supporting Moscow’s military-industrial complex. Analysts note that U.S. attempts to “reset” relations with Russia to drive a wedge between China and Russia are unlikely to succeed, as both countries benefit from this “highly asymmetric” partnership, with Russia increasingly reliant on China. This dynamic strengthens their mutual dependence but complicates China’s relations with Europe.
Among the invited guests are leaders from Brazil, Serbia, Slovakia, and other nations, reflecting Moscow’s efforts to present itself as a globally supported power despite Western attempts to isolate it. Putin described Xi’s visit as “special,” and the participation of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army honor guard in the parade symbolically reinforces the unity between the two nations. Analysis suggests that this event allows Russia to showcase its military might while enabling China to solidify its position as a global player, particularly as it navigates U.S. trade pressures and seeks to maintain influence in Asia and Europe.
In an article published in Russia’s Rossiyskaya Gazeta, Xi expressed gratitude to Moscow for supporting Taiwan’s reunification with China, emphasizing that this stance is part of the post-World War II international order. He further stated that China and Russia jointly oppose “power politics,” likely referring to the U.S.’s disruptive trade tariffs. Analysts suggest that these statements are aimed at improving ties with European nations to mitigate the impact of U.S. tariffs, though China’s close alignment with Russia risks eroding trust in Europe, especially given accusations of supporting Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
According to the Kremlin, Xi and Putin will discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation, including the Power of Siberia-2 gas pipeline project, the Ukraine conflict, and international issues such as support for Iran. Several agreements are expected to be signed, further solidifying economic and diplomatic ties between the two nations. Analysis indicates that China’s “neutral” stance on the Ukraine conflict, coupled with its economic support for Russia, complicates its relations with the West but enhances its role as an alternative global leader. This delicate balancing act underscores China’s strategic maneuvering in a multipolar world.
