China’s President Xi Backs Renewed US-Russia Talks on Ukraine Peace

 

President Xi Jinping of China spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, expressing support for renewed contact between Russia and the United States aimed at finding a political resolution to the war in Ukraine. The conversation was held at Putin’s request and followed the Kremlin’s announcement that Putin will soon meet U.S. President Donald Trump in search of an agreement to end the conflict, now in its fourth year. Xi told Putin that Beijing remains committed to peace talks and diplomatic solutions, according to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV. Since returning to the White House in January, Trump has taken a more conciliatory approach toward Russia but has shown increasing frustration over the lack of progress toward peace. He has also warned of possible new tariffs on nations that buy Russian oil, including China. This comes after he imposed 25 percent duties on India for similar purchases. Beijing responded by stating that its trade and energy cooperation with Russia is legitimate and based on national interests, pledging to take necessary measures to maintain energy security despite U.S. pressure.

Friday’s call between Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin was the second in less than two months, highlighting the close coordination between Beijing and Moscow. The two leaders discussed deepening cooperation in the areas of economics, trade, and security. Their relationship has grown stronger since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which caused a significant deterioration in Moscow’s relations with Western nations. China has positioned itself as a partner to Russia while also portraying itself internationally as an advocate for peace talks. The timing of the call is significant, as it comes shortly before a planned meeting between Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump. The Kremlin views the meeting as an opportunity to explore ways to end the prolonged war. Trump, while initially seeking better relations with Russia, has faced challenges in pushing Putin toward a negotiated settlement. Meanwhile, Xi’s message signals that China is watching these developments closely and wants to be seen as a supporter of dialogue. Putin is expected to visit China in September to take part in events marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two, further cementing the nations’ partnership on the global stage.

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