Chicago January 22, 2025
Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a video call on Tuesday, where they vowed to “deepen strategic coordination” and strengthen their countries’ relationship. This call came just a day after President Donald Trump’s return to the White House.
During the call, Xi and Putin referred to each other as “friends” and promised to support each other’s strategic interests, despite the current global situation. Xi expressed his desire to elevate Chinese-Russian relations to a new level, ensuring stability and resilience in the face of external uncertainties ¹.
The two leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to the U.N.-centered international system and the post-World War II global order. This move is seen as a nod to Putin’s efforts to reclaim Ukraine, which some argue is an attempt to re-establish the Soviet Union.
Additionally, Xi briefed Putin on his recent call with Trump, discussing topics such as TikTok, trade, and Taiwan. The Chinese and Russian leaders expressed their willingness to build relations with the United States on a mutually beneficial and respectful basis, provided the Trump administration shows interest.
Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov noted that Russia is ready for dialogue with the new U.S. administration on the Ukrainian conflict. As Xi and Putin continue to strengthen their alliance, the international community watches with interest, wondering what implications this will have on global politics.
