In a display of diplomatic grandeur, Xi Jinping welcomed Vladimir Putin to Beijing with pomp and pageantry, just days after hosting Donald Trump. However, beneath the ceremonial surface, the dynamics of their relationship are shifting. As Russia's war in Ukraine deepens, Moscow's reliance on Beijing has grown, while Western leaders are thawing their relations with China. This power imbalance raises questions about the future of the Xi-Putin partnership.
The Changing Balance of Power
Russia's prolonged conflict in Ukraine has strained its economy and military, pushing it to seek support from China. Meanwhile, China's economic and diplomatic influence continues to rise, giving it leverage in the relationship. Lucy Hough spoke to the Guardian's deputy head of international news, Devika Bhat, about what this means for the two leaders.
Dependence and Diplomacy
Moscow's increasing dependence on Beijing is evident in trade deals and energy agreements. However, China has been careful not to alienate Western powers, maintaining a balancing act. The recent warming of ties between China and the West, including high-level meetings, suggests Beijing is hedging its bets.
Putin's visit to Beijing, while symbolically important, also highlights his need for a powerful ally. Yet Xi's simultaneous engagement with other world leaders indicates that China's foreign policy is not solely tied to Russia. The question remains: can the 'best friends' narrative survive this power shift?
