Chinese President Xi Jinping has denounced U.S. “hegemony,” likening it to the fascist forces defeated in World War II, ahead of his summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Xi’s visit coincides with Russia’s Victory Day celebrations, underscoring the strengthening ties between China and Russia as they challenge the U.S.-led international order.
This development comes amid escalating trade tensions, with U.S. President Donald Trump intensifying tariffs on Chinese goods and seeking a peace deal in Ukraine involving Russia.
During his address, Xi emphasized the historical unity between China and the Soviet Union against fascism and cautioned against present-day unilateralism. The Kremlin echoed similar sentiments, aiming to showcase resilience against Western pressure.
Despite outward solidarity, China faces economic and diplomatic constraints, balancing its partnership with Russia—which defies international sanctions—and its desire to maintain ties with Europe. Bilateral trade between China and Russia has grown significantly, rising from $147 billion in 2021 to $245 billion in 2024. However, recent economic slowdowns and hesitancy in infrastructure projects limit further expansion. Analysts suggest that China might prefer a resolution to the Ukraine conflict to ease tensions with the West, though Xi avoided directly referencing the war.
His statements promoting global stability contrast with concerns over Russia’s actions in Ukraine, drawing international scrutiny and raising questions about China’s role and credibility on the global stage.
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Context & Background
The strengthening alliance between China and Russia has been marked by a series of diplomatic and economic collaborations aimed at countering U.S. influence. In 2024, the term “Axis of Upheaval” was coined to describe the growing anti-Western cooperation between Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. This informal alliance seeks to challenge the Western-dominated global order and promote a multipolar world. Economic ties between China and Russia have deepened, with bilateral trade reaching $245 billion in 2024, up from $147 billion in 2021. This partnership includes significant energy deals, with Russia becoming a major supplier of oil and natural gas to China, providing a crucial economic lifeline to Russia amid Western sanctions.
Despite this cooperation, China faces challenges in balancing its relationship with Russia and maintaining its economic ties with Europe. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has drawn international scrutiny, and China’s support for Russia has raised questions about its role on the global stage. Analysts suggest that China may prefer a resolution to the Ukraine war to ease tensions with the West and preserve its economic interests. However, Xi’s recent statements and actions indicate a continued commitment to strengthening ties with Russia and challenging U.S. hegemony.
In This Story
Xi Jinping
Xi Jinping is the General Secretary of the Communist Party of China and the President of the People’s Republic of China. He has been in office since 2013 and has focused on consolidating power domestically while expanding China’s influence internationally.
Vladimir Putin
Vladimir Putin is the President of the Russian Federation, having held the position since 2012, with previous terms from 2000 to 2008. His leadership has been marked by efforts to reassert Russia’s influence on the global stage and strengthen ties with countries like China.
Donald Trump
Donald Trump is the 45th President of the United States, serving from 2017 to 2021. His administration was characterized by an “America First” policy, leading to trade tensions with China and efforts to renegotiate international agreements.
China-Russia Relations
The bilateral relationship between China and Russia has evolved into a strategic partnership, characterized by economic cooperation, military collaboration, and a shared interest in countering U.S. influence in global affairs.
Ukraine Conflict
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which began in 2022, has led to significant geopolitical tensions, with Russia’s actions drawing widespread condemnation and sanctions from Western nations. The situation has also impacted global economic and security dynamics.
