Putin visits China to reaffirm Russia ties as Xi also seeks stable US relations after Trump summit

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in China for a two-day visit on Tuesday, meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping to reaffirm bilateral ties. The visit follows Trump’s recent trip to Beijing, where he sought to stabilize U.S.-China relations. Kremlin officials stated Putin and Xi will discuss economic cooperation and 'key international and regional issues,' marking the 25th anniversary of the Sino-Russian Treaty of Friendship. Putin described bilateral relations as 'at a truly unprecedented level,' emphasizing their global significance. Chinese officials framed the visit as separate from Trump’s trip, with Beijing aiming to balance strategic trust with Moscow while maintaining stable Western relations. Deputy Secretary-General Wang Zichen of the Center for China & Globalization noted China’s dual focus: 'stable relations with the West, continued strategic trust with Moscow.' The leaders previously called each other 'old friend' and 'dear friend,' a rare diplomatic term in China. In April, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited Beijing, where Xi highlighted the need for stronger collaboration to defend shared interests. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Putin’s trip would allow Russia to exchange views with China on U.S. negotiations. China remains Russia’s primary trade partner, reinforcing economic and strategic interdependence. The visit underscores Beijing’s role as a mediator, seeking to present itself as a neutral global power capable of engaging multiple stakeholders.