Xi and Putin Discuss Strengthening Ties in Call Following Trump's Inauguration

In a significant video conference, Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in discussions aimed at elevating the bilateral relationship between their nations on January 22, shortly after the inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump. This annual tradition of communication has become a hallmark of their close personal relationship, which has deepened amidst ongoing conflicts, particularly the war in Ukraine.

During the call, Xi expressed his commitment to enhance China-Russia relations, indicating a readiness to respond to external uncertainties with strengthened ties. The Chinese Foreign Ministry highlighted Xi's intention to guide the relationship to a new level of stability and resilience.

Putin acknowledged the burgeoning trade between the two countries, which reached record levels in the previous year, and emphasized their mutual goal of reshaping a global order they perceive as unfairly dominated by the United States. He articulated a shared vision for a multipolar world and underscored the essential role of their collaborative efforts in stabilizing international affairs.

The conversation between the two leaders comes as they closely monitor Trump's return to the presidency. Both Xi and Putin have openly expressed hopes to mend strained relations with the U.S. under Trump's new administration. Trump has indicated a willingness to engage with both leaders early in his presidency, although the specifics of his administration's approach toward global rivals remain uncertain.

In a previous conversation with Xi, Trump discussed various topics, including the situation in Ukraine. The new U.S. president has shown admiration for both Xi and Putin but is expected to seek concessions from each to level the economic playing field with China and address Russia's aggression in Ukraine.

Trump indicated he would consider implementing further sanctions against Russia should Putin fail to engage in negotiations to resolve the conflict. He also mentioned discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and expressed hope that Xi might leverage his influence to mediate the situation.

European leaders have long anticipated that China could play a pivotal role in encouraging Putin to accept peace terms regarding Ukraine. With Trump's administration emphasizing the resolution of this conflict, Beijing may find itself in a challenging position. Xi has sought to position China as a potential peace broker, despite accusations from the U.S. and allies regarding China's support for Russia's military efforts, which Beijing has denied.

At the same time, Xi is keen to maintain a positive relationship with Trump to mitigate the risk of harmful tariffs amid China's economic challenges. However, he must also navigate the delicate balance of preserving the partnership with Russia, particularly after the two nations forged a partnership described as 'limitless' ahead of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Neither the Kremlin nor the Chinese Foreign Ministry provided details on whether the ongoing conflict in Ukraine was a topic of discussion during their recent call. Instead, both leaders referenced the 80th anniversary of the Allied victory in World War II, extending invitations to each other for commemorative events planned in May in Russia and in September in China.