In a significant diplomatic move, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a video conference on January 21, 2025, to reaffirm their strategic partnership. This discussion occurred shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump’s inauguration, highlighting the evolving dynamics in international relations.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
During the 90-minute conversation, both leaders emphasized the importance of their alliance in promoting a multipolar world order. President Xi stated the necessity for both nations to “deepen strategic coordination” and “firmly support one another,” underscoring their mutual commitment to safeguarding each country’s legitimate interests. President Putin echoed these sentiments, highlighting the “alignment of views on how relations between great powers should be.”
Economic and Military Cooperation
The dialogue also touched upon enhancing economic and military collaborations. China remains Russia’s largest trading partner, with trade volumes reaching a record $240 billion in the previous year, primarily driven by Russian oil exports. Both nations have been conducting transactions in rubles and yuan, reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar and mitigating the impact of Western sanctions on Russia. Additionally, President Putin expressed intentions to strengthen military cooperation between the two countries, aiming to bolster their combined capabilities.
Geopolitical Implications
The timing of this call, immediately following President Trump’s inauguration, suggests a coordinated approach by Russia and China in addressing potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy. While neither leader directly mentioned the United States, their discussions on global stability and strategic coordination indicate a unified front in response to Western influence. This partnership provides both nations with a platform to counterbalance U.S. policies and assert their positions on the global stage.
The video call between Presidents Putin and Xi underscores the deepening ties between Russia and China, reflecting a shared vision for a multipolar world order. As global dynamics continue to evolve, this alliance serves as a counterweight to Western dominance, with both nations poised to collaborate closely on economic, military, and geopolitical fronts.
