China’s Xi Jinping Affirms Strong Ties with Russia Amid U.S. Policy Shift

Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the strength of China-Russia ties during a phone call with Vladimir Putin, asserting that their relationship remains unshaken by shifting U.S. foreign policy. Despite the evolving geopolitical landscape driven by President Trump’s outreach toward Moscow, Xi affirmed the nations’ commitment to cooperation and mutual support amid ongoing tensions surrounding Ukraine.

On a recent phone call, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the unbreakable bond between China and Russia while speaking with President Vladimir Putin. This conversation marked their first discussion following a notable shift in U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump, who is seeking to improve relations with Moscow amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine. Xi asserted that the two nations are steadfast allies that will not be swayed by external pressures as they commemorate three years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Xi’s remarks, reported by China’s state news agency Xinhua, reiterated that their foreign policies are designed for long-term cooperation, and he expressed confidence that fluctuations in the global landscape would not hinder their ties. The Chinese leader noted, “History and reality show that China and Russia are good neighbors that cannot be moved away, and true friends who share weal and woe.” According to the Kremlin, the call was cordial, but they did not expound on their relationship to the same extent as Beijing did.

The context of this conversation is significant as U.S. relations with Russia have recently been warming under Trump’s leadership, prompting fears that Kyiv’s interests may be sidelined in peace discussions. The Trump administration has signaled a willingness to engage with Moscow, indicating a potential shift in the geopolitical landscape. Additionally, Trump administration officials had previously met with Russian counterparts in Saudi Arabia, revealing complex negotiations regarding the conflict.

During their conversation, Putin updated Xi on recent U.S.-Russia communications. In response, Xi expressed approval of dialogues taking place aimed at resolving the crisis and offered China’s willingness to support peaceful solutions for Ukraine. This interaction demonstrates both nations’ desire to consolidate their strategic partnership in light of changing U.S. diplomacy.

China has positioned itself as a crucial supporter of Russia throughout the ongoing conflict, facilitating economic ties while maintaining a stance of neutrality. This relationship, proclaimed as a “no limits” partnership, emphasizes mutual cooperation against Western influences. Despite speculation that the U.S. may drive a wedge between the two nations, Xi and Putin appear resolute in their alliance, evidenced by their recent discussions.

In summary, Xi Jinping’s recent call with Vladimir Putin underscores the enduring nature of China-Russia relations despite evolving U.S. foreign policy. The leaders affirmed their commitment to long-term collaboration, asserting that external political shifts would not alter their partnership. As Beijing and Moscow navigate the intricacies of international diplomacy, their alliance remains a fundamental aspect of their respective strategies against perceived Western encroachment.

Original Source: edition.cnn.com