Xi, Putin Reaffirm ‘No Limits’ Partnership on Ukraine War Anniversary
BEIJING:
Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed the strength of his country’s strategic partnership with Russian President Vladimir Putin during a phone call on Monday, coinciding with the third anniversary of the Ukraine conflict, according to Chinese state media.
The discussion took place amid growing speculation that the United States, under former President Donald Trump’s leadership, may attempt to broker a swift resolution to the Ukraine war. Such a move could potentially disrupt the close alliance between Beijing and Moscow, redirecting Washington’s focus toward countering China. However, the call between Xi and Putin appeared to dispel any notion of division, with both leaders emphasizing the stability and longevity of their partnership, independent of external influence.
“China-Russia relations have a strong internal momentum and strategic value, remaining unaffected by any third party,” Xi stated, as per the official Chinese government readout.
Xi underscored that the diplomatic and economic strategies of both nations were designed for long-term collaboration, highlighting that China and Russia “are close neighbors whose ties cannot be weakened.”
According to a Kremlin statement, Putin briefed Xi on recent discussions between Russia and the United States. In response, Xi acknowledged Russia’s diplomatic efforts and reiterated China’s commitment to de-escalation initiatives, including the formation of a coalition known as “Friends of Peace.”
While Beijing continues to present itself as a neutral mediator in the Ukraine conflict, Western critics argue that China’s actions contradict this stance. They point to its significant purchases of Russian oil and gas, as well as the provision of dual-use goods that could support Moscow’s war effort.
This marked the second conversation between Xi and Putin in 2025, following a previous discussion in January, which also focused on strengthening bilateral ties. Analysts, including Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center’s Gabuev, noted that the timing of the latest call—on the war’s anniversary—was a clear indication of the depth and resilience of their alliance.
