Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Beijing on Thursday is set to begin his new presidential term with significant backing from his influential political ally, Chinese President Xi Jinping, emphasizing their strong partnership amidst ongoing U.S. pressure. This two-day visit underscores their “no limits” alliance, particularly against American opposition to Russia’s 2022 actions in Ukraine.
According to the Chinese foreign ministry, both leaders will discuss bilateral ties and address various international and regional issues. While speculation suggests that Putin might seek enhanced support for Russia’s war economy, focusing on necessary machinery and chemicals for military purposes and more favorable oil and gas agreements, the visit’s core message is a united front against the U.S.-dominated global order.
“China is Russia’s strategic partner – this is the path chosen by the president of Russia and the leader of China – and nothing is going to change that no matter what the West tries to say or do,” a Russian official emphasized.
Putin’s agenda includes economic discussions with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and a trip to Harbin, a city with deep Russian links. This visit follows an earlier attempt by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to warn China against deepening military ties with Russia.
Despite the strong “no limits” declaration made shortly before Russia’s Ukraine incursion in February 2022, China has so far refrained from supplying Russia with direct military weaponry and ammunition. While the U.S. debated sanctioning Chinese banks, there have been no concrete moves yet.
Alexander Neill, a defense analyst, suggested that Putin would likely seek China’s assistance for Russia’s efforts in Ukraine. However, the extent of China’s support without provoking U.S. retaliation remains to be watched closely.
“The very act of Beijing receiving Putin is already supportive, as China is the only major power that hasn’t isolated Moscow,” commented James Char, a security expert. “China needs Russia on its side to subvert the U.S.-led world order.”
There remain inherent limitations to the Sino-Russian partnership, including mutual distrust dating back to the Cold War era when they were ideological communist allies. Russia’s elite also harbors skepticism about Russia becoming merely a resource provider for China.
Russia’s oil exports to China surged to a record 2.14 million barrels per day last year, with China saving approximately $4.34 billion by purchasing discounted Russian oil. Additionally, Chinese gas imports from Russia rose nearly 40% last year to 33.7 billion cubic meters. Despite these increases, Russia’s Gazprom continues to face challenges in compensating for the loss of European sales.
