Putin’s visit underscores Russia’s increasing economic reliance on China since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine over two years ago.
In a pre-visit interview with Chinese media, Putin expressed willingness to engage in dialogue regarding the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing the need for negotiations to consider the interests of all involved parties.
During Putin’s two-day stay, Russian forces continued their offensive in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region, prompting nearly 8,000 people to flee their homes, marking a significant escalation in the conflict.
Putin reiterated Russia’s openness to negotiation while emphasizing a comprehensive, just settlement that respects the interests of all parties, including Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has outlined key negotiation points, including territorial integrity restoration, Russian troop withdrawal, prisoner release, tribunal for aggression, and security guarantees for Ukraine.
While China claims neutrality, it supports Russia’s position that Western provocation triggered the conflict, aligning with Putin’s goal to restore Russia’s historical borders.
Putin praised China’s proposed peace plan for Ukraine, aiming to solidify Moscow’s territorial gains and minimize global economic impact.
The Kremlin stated that Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping will discuss bilateral partnership, strategic cooperation, and address international and regional issues.
The visit underscores China and Russia’s joint effort to challenge the Western democratic order in favor of authoritarianism, with Putin beginning his fifth term in office this month.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov emphasized Russia and China’s shared interest in reforming the international system towards a multipolar world order.
Amidst the prolonged conflict, Russia has strengthened economic and military ties with China, diverting energy exports and collaborating on sensitive military technologies.
The two countries have conducted joint military exercises, including naval drills and ground force deployments, while China expands its domestic defense capabilities.
Putin previously disclosed Russian assistance to China in developing advanced military technologies, including an early warning system for ballistic missile launches.