Putin's First Foreign Trip Since Re-Election; Destination Is China As Russia Seeks Stronger Ties Amid Ukraine Crisis

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to embark on a two-day state visit to China this week, as announced by the Chinese Foreign Ministry on 14 May.

During his visit, beginning Thursday, Putin will meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, as per a report by The Hindu.

The Kremlin has confirmed the trip, stating that Putin is visiting at Xi's invitation. This marks Putin’s first foreign trip since starting his fifth term as president.

China has politically supported Russia in the Ukraine conflict, continuing to export machine tools and other items aiding the Russian war effort, though not weaponry.

Additionally, China is a major market for Russian energy supplies, which are crucial for the Kremlin’s finances. According to China’s Foreign Ministry, Xi and Putin will discuss bilateral cooperation and international and regional issues of common concern.

Xi Jinping has praised Putin’s re-election, stating it reflects the support of the Russian people.

Despite claiming neutrality in the Ukraine conflict, China has declared a “no limits” relationship with Russia, opposing the West. The two nations have conducted joint military drills, and China has consistently opposed economic sanctions against Russia in response to its ongoing campaign in Ukraine.

Both countries, with their authoritarian regimes, are increasingly at odds with democracies and NATO, while seeking to expand their influence in Africa, the Middle East, and South America.