Xi-Putin Alliance: Strategic Alignment or Superpower Facade?

Following US President Trump's exit, Xi Jinping hosted Vladimir Putin in Beijing, highlighting a close partnership that seeks to redefine global dynamics. The summit presented a united front against US influence, but underlying strategic interests and geopolitical realignments may challenge this apparent solidarity.

Amid the fading echoes of US President Donald Trump’s departure, Chinese leader Xi Jinping wasted no time in hosting Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Beijing from May 19-20. The back-to-back state visits underscore a strategic alignment between Beijing and Moscow, as both leaders appear to discuss their approach to shared adversities, notably the United States.

Since 2013, Xi and Putin have met over 40 times, reflecting the deepening ties between their nations. Malcolm Davis from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute observes that Putin's recent visit is another step in Russia and China's joint strategy to challenge Western dominance. Despite this growing collaboration, analysts warn this may signal a pre-war era reminiscent of the late 1930s, as US support for NATO wanes.

While the optics of camaraderie are evident, Dr. Yu Jie from Chatham House cautions that strategic interests, not personal rapport, drive this partnership. The meeting sharpened focus on their commitment to restructuring international order, advocating a multipolar world. Meanwhile, unresolved tensions remain, as both nations seek to manage their converging yet complex agendas.