Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed his “no limits” partnership with Russian President Vladimir Putin during a phone call on Monday, coinciding with the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, according to Chinese state media. The discussions between the two leaders came as U.S. President Donald Trump has been advocating for a swift resolution to the Ukraine conflict. His push for a peace deal raises the possibility that Washington may seek to drive a wedge between Beijing and Moscow while shifting its strategic focus toward competing with China, the world’s second-largest economy.
The call appeared to be a deliberate move to reinforce the strength of their partnership, with both leaders highlighting its durability and long-term nature, independent of external pressures. Xi underscored the stability of their alliance, emphasizing, “The development strategies and foreign policies of China and Russia are designed for the long term.”
Xi Jinping’s decision not to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine three years ago has allowed China to position itself as a crucial ally for Moscow, consuming Russian oil and supplying essential goods. This choice has strained Beijing’s relations with Europe and galvanized American allies in Asia to strengthen their ties with NATO.
Recently, Chinese officials have voiced support for the “agreement” between the US and Russia to initiate peace talks. At a United Nations Security Council meeting, China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, declared, “China supports all efforts conducive to peace talks,” coinciding with discussions between US and Russian officials aimed at laying the groundwork for negotiations.
However, comments from American officials suggest underlying US objectives that may concern Beijing. US Senator Marco Rubio highlighted the prospect of future “geopolitical and economic cooperation” between Washington and Moscow as a critical point of discussion. Keith Kellogg, the Trump administration’s envoy for Russia-Ukraine relations, stated that the US aims to compel Putin into actions he finds “uncomfortable,” potentially disrupting Russia’s alliances with Iran, North Korea, and notably, China.
Trump’s approach to the Ukraine conflict has unsettled Washington’s European allies, particularly after excluding them and Ukraine from recent talks with Russia while placing blame on Kyiv for Moscow’s 2022 invasion.
As the war enters its third year, the evolving dynamics between China and Russia, along with the US’s strategic maneuvers, underscore a complex geopolitical landscape. The deepening ties between Xi and Putin reflect not only their shared interests but also a growing challenge for the West, as both countries navigate their partnerships while facing external pressures. The future of their alliance could significantly shape global politics, making it crucial for the international community to closely monitor developments and engage in dialogues that promote stability and peace in the continent.
