Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Moscow on May 7 for a four-day state visit, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. His visit comes amidst heightened tensions, with Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Moscow just hours before Xi’s arrival. Despite the attacks, Xi landed at Vnukovo-2 Airport and was warmly welcomed by Russian President Vladimir Putin and a delegation of top Russian officials.
Strengthening ties amid Western sanctions
Xi’s visit underscores the deepening strategic alliance between China and Russia, especially since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022. During his meeting with Putin, Xi pledged China’s support against what he described as “hegemonic bullying”, a thinly veiled criticism of Western sanctions and U.S. influence. The Chinese president assured Putin that Beijing would stand by Moscow as the two nations challenge Western dominance in global politics.
The discussions are expected to cover energy cooperation, including the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline, which would further solidify China as Russia’s largest energy consumer. Both leaders are also anticipated to discuss trade agreements aimed at circumventing Western economic restrictions.
Victory Day parade and global messages
Xi is the highest-profile international leader attending the Victory Day military parade on Red Square, commemorating the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany. He will join 28 other world leaders in the event, where Chinese troops are set to march alongside Russian forces, a symbolic display of solidarity. Ukrainian officials have expressed disapproval of foreign participation, stating that it undermines neutrality in the conflict.
Putin described the alliance with China as one of “mutual benefit and equality”, insisting that it serves the interests of both nations rather than standing against any particular state. Both leaders also promised to defend the “historical truth” of World War II, accusing Western powers of attempting to rewrite history.
Global implications
The visit also sends a powerful message of unity between the two global powers, with both leaders positioning themselves as defenders of the post-war international order. In a published statement, Xi emphasized the importance of resisting Western unilateralism and maintaining global stability through Sino-Russian cooperation.
The talks are ongoing, with more announcements expected over the coming days as both leaders discuss what Putin called “the most sensitive issues” affecting both nations.
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