China and Russia have reaffirmed their “no-restriction” partnership in a statement released prior to a military parade in Russia on Friday.
This declaration came during President Xi’s visit to Moscow, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin—who celebrates Victory Day on May 9—remarked that “Certain countries are attempting to downplay the significance of World War II’s victory.”
It’s worth noting that this is Xi’s 11th trip to Russia since he took office in 2013. On Thursday, the two leaders shared nearly four hours of discussions, referring to each other as close friends. Putin has also disclosed plans to visit China in the fall, coinciding with events surrounding Japan’s defeat in the war.
In their joint statement, Xi and Putin went further than before, making explicit criticisms of the United States.
“The United States and its allies are working to promote NATO’s expansion into the Asia-Pacific, forming ‘small circles’ in the region, seeking to influence nearby countries, and advancing the ‘Indo-Pacific Strategy,’ which undermines the peace and stability of the area,” the statement highlighted.
China has consistently supported Russia’s stance that NATO’s growth in Europe poses a threat to its security.
The statement also condemned “unilateral enforcement measures such as economic sanctions that contravene the UN Charter and other international laws, jeopardizing global security interests.”
Currently, China is navigating a trade dispute with the United States that has been causing fluctuations in global markets since President Trump’s inauguration. Both countries are set to engage in initial talks this weekend regarding tariffs. Simultaneously, Russia faces pressure from the U.S. to pursue peace talks concerning Ukraine. This recent meeting of the Chinese and Russian leaders underscores their close relationship, viewed as a counterbalance to U.S. influence.
Earlier this week, Xi remarked that World War II symbolized the “liberation” of Taiwan and represented its “return to China.” The Chinese Communist Party views Taiwan as part of its territory, despite never governing the island. After the Chinese civil war in 1949, the Chinese Republic retreated there. China maintains its commitment to reunify Taiwan, even by force if necessary, indicating that resolving “Taiwan issues” is a significant aspect of Xi’s legacy.
A joint statement from Xi and Putin expressed Russia’s “strong support for measures that safeguard state sovereignty and territorial integrity to achieve national unity.”
While China and Russia do not have a formal military alliance, there is increasing concern in the West regarding their close security collaboration. According to the Chinapower Project, which monitors military and economic developments, the two countries conducted 14 joint military exercises in 2024.
For the first time since 2015, the Chinese Honorary Guard participated in Friday’s military parade in Moscow.
