By Charles Pemu 
Beijing and Moscow showcase deepening ties amid rising global tensions
Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin showcased their growing alliance during Xi’s high-profile visit to Moscow, delivering a strong message to the world: China and Russia are closer than ever—and united in challenging Western dominance.
During a grand welcoming ceremony at the Kremlin on Thursday, Putin greeted Xi as a “dear friend.” After nearly four hours of talks, Xi described the meeting as “friendly and fruitful,” and both leaders signed a joint statement to deepen their strategic partnership.
This visit marks Xi’s 11th to Russia and comes ahead of the Victory Day military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. It also comes at a time of increasing global division, with China and Russia pushing back against the influence of the United States and its allies.
Challenging U.S. Influence
Both leaders emphasized their opposition to what they called a “hegemonic” world order dominated by the United States. Xi criticized “unilateralism and bullying” in international politics—remarks widely seen as a reference to U.S. trade policies and support for Taiwan.
“History and reality have shown that our continued partnership is a natural result of the long-standing friendship between our peoples,” Xi said.
Putin announced plans to visit China later this year to mark the anniversary of Japan’s World War II defeat, further strengthening symbolic ties between the two nations.
A United Front on Ukraine and Taiwan
As the war in Ukraine continues, China has become a crucial economic lifeline for Russia. While China claims neutrality, Kyiv has accused Beijing of indirectly supporting Russia’s war effort.
At the same time, Xi used the visit to reaffirm China’s claim over Taiwan, praising Russia’s consistent support for the “One China” policy. Russia, he said, “firmly opposes any form of Taiwan independence” and backs China’s push for reunification.
In response, Taiwan’s new president Lai Ching-te warned European leaders to stand with Taiwan against what he called “a new totalitarian group”—referring to the growing China-Russia alliance. He compared Taiwan’s current situation to Europe’s vulnerability before World War II.
Ceasefire Doubts and Rising Tensions
While Russia declared a three-day ceasefire to mark Victory Day, Ukrainian officials reported hundreds of violations across the frontlines, casting doubt on Moscow’s sincerity. Flights to Moscow were also disrupted by Ukrainian drone attacks, underlining the ongoing instability.
Despite these tensions, Xi’s visit was marked by pomp and symbolism. His arrival was greeted with a military band, national anthems, and a show of military might, reinforcing the message that the China-Russia alliance is not just strategic—but ideological.