Beijing Jan 22: Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin pledged to elevate their bilateral relations to “greater heights” during a video call held just hours after Donald Trump was sworn in as U.S. president, according to state media from both nations.
Calling Xi a “dear friend,” Putin emphasized their nations’ commitment to building ties based on “friendship, mutual trust, and support” despite external pressures. Xi underscored the importance of “deepening strategic coordination, firming up mutual support, and safeguarding legitimate interests,” a sentiment echoed by Chinese state media, which noted Xi’s readiness to work with Putin in addressing “external uncertainties.”
The call came against the backdrop of escalating tensions surrounding the war in Ukraine. Trump, shortly after his inauguration, warned Moscow of “big trouble” if a settlement to the conflict was not reached. Putin, however, reiterated that any resolution must “respect Russian interests,” according to foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov.
China has faced allegations of supporting Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine by supplying critical components. Trade between the two nations has flourished, reaching a record $240 billion in 2023, up 64% from pre-war levels in 2021.
Despite the strained geopolitical climate, Ushakov stated that Putin and Xi were open to fostering relations with the U.S. on “a mutually beneficial and respectful basis,” provided the Trump administration reciprocates. He also clarified that the timing of the call was unrelated to Trump’s inauguration.
Xi had previously spoken with Trump in what the U.S. president described as a “very good” discussion, covering issues such as trade, fentanyl, and TikTok. Putin, who congratulated Trump via state television, has yet to engage with him directly.
Beyond Ukraine, the leaders touched on a range of global issues, including the Middle East, South Korea, and Taiwan. While details on these topics remained sparse, their discussions underscored the scope of the strategic alignment between Beijing and Moscow.
As the world watches the early days of Trump’s presidency, the Xi-Putin dialogue reflects a calculated strengthening of ties amid mounting external pressures, with both leaders signaling readiness to navigate the evolving geopolitical landscape together.
