Xi-Putin summit

Amid Trump’s tariffs and Ukraine talks, Putin and Xi were determined to display the strength of their strategic partnership despite U.S. pressure. 

The hope that Beijing would distance itself, however minimally, from Moscow has finally been extinguished. Europe needs to adjust its approach accordingly.

Instead, the China-Russia talks point to important, longer-term changes to the world architecture.

For China, it is increasingly difficult to balance its support for Russia and its ties with Western trading partners.

Anyone seriously considering China playing a role as peacemaker in Ukraine needs to wrestle with its constant and overt declarations of “unswerving” partnership with Russia.

Understanding the meaning of the dueling trips requires a closer look at the larger context of China and Japan’s recent international diplomatic efforts. 

While Chinese President Xi Jinping was in Moscow, Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio made a surprise visit to Kyiv.

Xi will visit Moscow on March 20-22 as speculation grows China is going to push harder for a diplomatic settlement to the war in Ukraine.

China’s position has subtly shifted since the Russian invasion began, but the partnership with Russia is too important for Beijing to truly abandon its ally.

No matter the areas of friction or tactical disagreement, China and Russia share a core worldview that binds them together.

When discussing the convergence of the Russian and Chinese narratives on Ukraine, a striking difference is often overlooked.

Insights from Bonny Lin.