Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed his growing alliance with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday during a state visit to Moscow, hailing the bilateral relationship as "confident, stable and resilient" and pledging resistance against "unilateralism and hegemonic bullying." The visit marks Xi's eleventh trip to Russia and comes as tensions with the United States escalate on multiple fronts, including Ukraine, Taiwan, and global trade.
Putin, welcoming Xi to the Kremlin ahead of Russia's May 9 Victory Day celebrations, called the Chinese leader a "dear friend," while Xi described Putin as his "old friend." Xi arrived under heightened security, with Russian fighter jets escorting his plane into Moscow. The trip underscores China's continued support for Russia as it faces growing international isolation over its war in Ukraine.
"History and reality have fully proven that the continued development and deepening of China-Russia relations is a natural continuation of the longstanding friendship between our peoples," Xi stated.
Xi's four-day visit includes bilateral talks and the expected signing of new cooperation agreements, deepening what Beijing and Moscow call a "no limits" strategic partnership. Xi used the occasion to condemn Western dominance, stating: "We must learn from history... [and] resolutely oppose all forms of hegemony and power politics."
In a speech at the Kremlin, Xi said China would work with Russia to "shoulder the special responsibilities of major world powers." Putin echoed that sentiment, asserting that both countries were united in countering "modern manifestations of neo-Nazism and militarism," linking his ongoing war in Ukraine to World War II.
The Chinese president's remarks appeared to back Moscow's justification of its war in Ukraine, which Putin claims is a campaign against "Nazism." On Thursday, Xi also emphasized that Beijing "firmly supports all measures taken by the Chinese government and people to achieve national reunification," referring to Taiwan. "Russia has repeatedly reiterated that it adheres to the one-China principle," Xi added.
The visit comes amid rising concern in the West that China is actively aiding Moscow's war effort, despite Beijing's claims of neutrality. Kyiv has increasingly accused China of sending nationals and materials to support Russian military operations.
Xi and Putin are expected to discuss the long-stalled Power of Siberia 2 pipeline project, which would deliver Russian natural gas to northern China. The project has been delayed by pricing disputes, but analysts say economic pressure on both sides may now push it forward.
Xi's Moscow visit follows recent moves by President Donald Trump's administration to pressure Kyiv and Moscow into a ceasefire and to recalibrate U.S. diplomacy toward Russia. Some analysts have speculated that this renewed U.S.-Russia engagement could challenge Beijing's influence over Moscow.
