Putin and Xi Hail Strong Relations Just Hours After Trump Takes Office

Political Vista January 21, 2025

Image Source: Video Screenshot

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping praised their growing partnership during a video call on Tuesday, just hours after Donald Trump were inaugurated as President of the United States.

Trump, a Republican, had previously vowed to take a tough stance on adversaries like China and Russia, promising high tariffs on Beijing and warning Moscow of serious consequences if it does not resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

During the call, Putin, who referred to Xi as his “dear friend,” emphasized that Russia and China were strengthening their ties based on “friendship, mutual trust, and support” despite external pressures. He also pointed out that their cooperation plays a key role in stabilizing global affairs.

Xi, in turn, expressed his desire to work with Putin to take the relationship between their countries to “new heights” in the coming year.

According to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV, Xi stressed the importance of deepening strategic coordination between the two countries, offering mutual support, and protecting their legitimate interests. He also highlighted the need to expand practical cooperation and push bilateral relations to even greater levels.

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Moscow and Beijing have reinforced their military and trade partnerships, causing concern in the United States, which views both countries as significant challenges on the world stage.

China has tried to present itself as neutral in the conflict, but its close political and economic ties with Russia, along with its refusal to condemn Russia’s actions, have led some NATO members to accuse Beijing of enabling the war.

Both leaders often highlight their strong personal bond, with Xi referring to Putin as his “best friend” and Putin calling Xi a “reliable partner.”

Political News