Putin expresses gratitude to China for their peace initiatives in Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing for a two-day state visit, aiming to underscore their unity amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. During the summit, Putin thanked Xi for China’s efforts to resolve the Ukraine war, while Xi expressed hope for peace and stability in Europe.

China had previously offered a general plan to end Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which was cautiously welcomed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. However, Zelenskyy emphasized that any initiative would only be acceptable if Russian troops withdrew from all occupied territory in Ukraine.

Putin and Xi signed a joint statement deepening their strategic partnership, highlighting the close ties between the two authoritarian leaders. China has emerged as a lifeline for Russia amid Western sanctions over the war in Ukraine, with reports alleging that China provided key technology to Moscow for the conflict.

Putin stated that he would inform Xi in detail about the situation in Ukraine and expressed gratitude for China’s initiative to regulate the conflict. The visit comes as Russia intensifies its offensive in Ukraine, with Ukrainian troops pulling back in Kharkiv.

Xi welcomed Putin with full military honors, calling Russia an “old friend.” The two leaders emphasized their deepening relationship as good neighbors and partners. Putin expressed readiness to negotiate over the conflict in Ukraine, but stressed the importance of considering the interests of all countries involved.

The meeting between Putin and Xi underscores the complex dynamics at play in the conflict, with China claiming neutrality but also backing Russia’s narrative of being provoked by the West. The summit highlights the strategic partnership between Russia and China as they navigate the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.