Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin Reaffirm Their "No Limits" Partnership Amid Ukraine War Anniversary
On the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed their "no limits" partnership during a phone call. The conversation, reported by Chinese state media, underscored the durability and long-term nature of their alliance, which they emphasized is not influenced by external forces. This call comes at a time when former U.S. President Donald Trump has been pushing for a quick deal to end the Ukraine war, raising speculation about whether Washington could drive a wedge between Beijing and Moscow. However, Xi and Putin’s dialogue seemed aimed at dispelling such prospects, reinforcing their commitment to a partnership that is driven by mutual strategic interests and geopolitical alignment.
The Strength and Significance of the China-Russia Alliance
Xi highlighted the unique strategic value of China-Russia relations, emphasizing that they are not targeted against any third party and cannot be influenced by external factors. He described the two nations as "good neighbors that cannot be moved apart," reflecting their deepening ties over the years. This partnership has grown increasingly significant as both countries face geopolitical challenges—Russia is engaged in a war with NATO-supported Ukraine, while China is under pressure from U.S.-led efforts to counter its military and economic rise. Analysts view their collaboration as an attempt to challenge the U.S.-led global order, with Xi previously suggesting that the two nations have the opportunity to drive historic changes in the world.
Trump’s Role in Shaping the Geopolitical Landscape
Donald Trump’s recent efforts to broker a peace deal in Ukraine have introduced a new dynamic into the situation. His exclusion of European allies and Ukraine from recent talks with Russia, held in Saudi Arabia, has raised concerns among Western powers. Additionally, Trump’s blame of Ukraine for Russia’s invasion has further complicated the diplomatic landscape. Putin reportedly informed Xi about these recent Russian-American contacts, showcasing Moscow’s willingness to engage with Washington even as it strengthens ties with Beijing. However, analysts like Alexander Gabuev of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center believe that Russia is confident in maintaining beneficial ties with both China and the U.S., should Trump’s overtures prove advantageous.
China’s Role as a "Neutral Peacemaker" and Criticisms
Xi expressed satisfaction with Russia’s efforts to de-escalate the Ukraine crisis and highlighted China’s initiatives, such as the creation of a "friends of peace" group aimed at portraying China as a neutral peacemaker. However, critics argue that China’s efforts lack substance, as it continues to support Russia indirectly through the supply of dual-use goods and significant purchases of Russian oil and gas. China has denied allegations of supporting Russia’s military-industrial base, with its top diplomat, Wang Yi, asserting that China will not stop buying Russian energy, as doing so would undermine its own security and economic stability.
Economic Pressures and the Road Ahead
The phone call also addressed economic pressures, particularly China’s struggling economy, which faces high youth unemployment and is ill-equipped to withstand another trade war with the U.S. Xi has instructed bureaucrats to study Trump’s policies and respond to his trade measures, signaling China’s cautious approach to navigating the evolving geopolitical and economic landscape. This was the second call between Xi and Putin this year, following a January discussion on building ties with Trump. Gabuev noted that the timing of the call on the war’s anniversary highlights the robust nature of the China-Russia partnership.
Historical Ties and Future Prospects
The two leaders also discussed preparations for the upcoming commemoration of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War II, with Xi accepting an invitation to attend the event in May. This reflects the historical depth of their alliance and their shared narrative of opposing fascism and promoting multipolarity in international relations. As the Ukraine war continues, the China-Russia partnership remains a critical factor in shaping global geopolitics, with both nations poised to challenge U.S. influence and promote their own vision of international order. The anniversary call served as a powerful statement of their commitment to this shared vision, signaling that their alliance is here to stay.
