Russia strengthens ties with China following Trump-Xi meeting

In Short:
– Russian officials emphasise their alliance with China after Trump’s meeting with Xi Jinping.
– Prime Minister Mishustin’s visit to China aims to strengthen trade and cooperation between the two nations.

Russian officials reaffirmed their alliance with China following U.S. President Donald Trump’s meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin arrived in Hangzhou for two days of negotiations, signing various agreements to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, energy, transport, agriculture, and space, according to Russian state media.

Mishustin described his Chinese counterpart as a “dear friend,” stating that Russian-Chinese relations are at their peak despite Western sanctions. Li Qiang reciprocated by expressing Beijing’s readiness to strengthen ties, noting mutual support amid external risks and challenges.

Strategic Partnership

China remains Russia’s most important ally, having not condemned the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, and echoes Russia’s language, referring to the situation as a “crisis.”

Ahead of this visit, the Kremlin highlighted the significance of the talks, sending a robust delegation, including top officials from finance, agriculture, space, and nuclear energy.

Mishustin’s visit coincides with Trump’s recent discussions with Xi, where agreements were reportedly reached on several issues in a gesture seen as a trade truce amidst rising tariffs.

Trump’s engagement with China contrasts with his lack of progress in talks with Russia, which he attributed to frustrations over the Ukraine conflict. This context may indicate Russia’s unease regarding China’s positive interactions with the U.S.