Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed support for continued dialogue between Russia and the United States to advance a political settlement to the Ukraine crisis during a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday. According to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV, Xi reiterated Beijing’s position that peace talks and diplomatic solutions remain essential to resolving the conflict. The call, requested by Putin, came as the Kremlin announced that the Russian leader would soon meet U.S. President Donald Trump in pursuit of an end to the war, now in its fourth year.
The discussion between Xi and Putin followed growing tensions over trade and energy policies. Since returning to the White House in January, Trump has taken a softer stance toward Russia but has become increasingly frustrated over the lack of progress toward peace in Ukraine. He has also warned of imposing steep tariffs on countries — including China — that continue to buy Russian oil. On Wednesday, Trump hinted at additional duties on Chinese imports, similar to the 25% tariffs already placed on India for its purchases of Russian oil.
In response, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun defended Beijing’s cooperation with Moscow, calling it “just and legitimate.” Guo emphasized that China will take reasonable steps to safeguard its energy security in line with national interests. This statement underscores Beijing’s commitment to maintaining its strategic energy partnership with Russia, even as it faces potential economic pressure from Washington.
Friday’s conversation marked the second call between Xi and Putin in less than two months, reflecting the deepening ties between their countries. Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Beijing and Moscow have strengthened their cooperation in economic, trade, and security sectors. Putin is expected to travel to China in September to participate in events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two, highlighting the continued alignment between the two nations amid ongoing global tensions.