Putin, Xi discussed latest Russia-US contact: IFX

Putin, Xi discussed latest Russia-US contact: IFX

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to discuss the latest developments in Russia-US relations during Putin's upcoming visit to China. The visit, which is expected to last nearly a week, comes at a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict over Ukraine.

Putin's trip to China will include attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, holding talks with Xi Jinping, and participating in Beijing's Victory Day military parade. The visit is notable for its duration, as Putin's stays in China have historically been shorter.

Analysts expect that Putin and Xi will align their positions on the war in Ukraine, a key issue on the agenda. Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Centre, stated that the two leaders need to ensure they are on the same page regarding the conflict's trajectory and potential resolution. Gabuev also noted that Russia seeks to understand China's stance on US efforts to end the fighting and whether Beijing would provide additional assistance to Moscow [1].

The visit is also significant for economic reasons. China has emerged as a crucial economic lifeline for Russia during the Ukraine conflict. Bilateral trade between the two countries reached more than $240 billion in 2024, with China becoming the leading buyer of Russian oil and coal. The two leaders are expected to discuss long-term trade agreements, including the Power of Siberia-2 gas pipeline and plans to expand the existing oil link into China [1].

The meeting comes amidst growing concerns in the West about China's deepening military cooperation with Russia. While China has not provided direct military aid to Russia, US officials estimate that Beijing has supplied about 70% of the machine tools and 90% of the semiconductors needed to rebuild Russia's war machine. In return, China is believed to be receiving assistance in sensitive defense technologies [1].

The visit will be closely watched in Washington, where the Trump administration has sought to tilt Russia away from China and towards the US. However, most analysts dismiss such hopes, noting that Russia and China's relationship is likely to remain close [1].

The visit also coincides with China's preparations for a significant military parade on September 3, marking the 80th anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II. The parade will feature several high-profile leaders, including Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, Kim Jong-un, and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. This event is expected to showcase new weaponry and highlight China's growing influence in the region [2].

In summary, Putin's visit to China is a significant diplomatic and economic event, with both leaders set to discuss critical issues related to the Ukraine conflict and long-term trade agreements. The visit is also notable for its symbolism, with Putin expected to participate in a major military parade in Beijing.

References:
[1] https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/aug/30/vladimir-putin-china-visit-xi-jinping-ukraine
[2] https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2025/08/29/china-takes-first-lng-cargo-from-sanctioned-russian-arctic-project-ahead-of-putinxi-summit-in-tianjin/189320