Russian President Vladimir Putin has embarked on a significant diplomatic mission to China, with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine expected to dominate discussions during his unusually lengthy stay. The visit represents a crucial moment for the two allies to synchronize their positions as international efforts to end the fighting continue.
The Russian leader’s itinerary includes participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, direct talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, and attendance at Beijing’s military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of Japan’s defeat in World War II. The extended duration of the visit underscores its strategic importance for both nations.
Observers note that Moscow and Beijing face pressing questions about the future direction of the Ukraine conflict. Russian officials are particularly interested in understanding whether China might increase its support and how Beijing would respond to potential international pressure to influence Moscow’s military actions.
China has become Russia’s primary economic partner since the invasion began, with bilateral trade reaching unprecedented levels. Beijing now serves as the leading purchaser of Russian energy exports, including oil and coal, and is poised to become Moscow’s main natural gas market. This economic interdependence appears likely to persist regardless of how the conflict evolves.
The discussions are expected to address several key energy projects, including the long-planned Power of Siberia-2 gas pipeline and expansion of existing oil infrastructure. Military cooperation represents another significant agenda item, with Western governments expressing concern about deepening defense ties between the two powers.
The diplomatic symbolism of the visit will be prominently displayed during military commemorations, where Putin will join other international leaders. These events allow both nations to emphasize their shared historical narratives as victorious powers in World War II, reinforcing their contemporary strategic alignment.
The meeting occurs as both Moscow and Beijing demonstrate increased confidence in their international positions. China has recently managed to avoid escalation in trade tensions with the United States, while Russia has maintained its military campaign despite international pressure.
Analysts suggest that while China would prefer resolution of the Ukraine conflict, Beijing appears content to maintain its current approach—prioritizing economic and diplomatic relations with Moscow while engaging in peace efforts that require minimal substantive action. The prevailing assessment indicates that neither Russia nor China shows interest in fundamentally altering their strategic partnership, despite external pressures.
