MOSCOW — In a recent video call, Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged with Chinese President Xi Jinping, highlighting the strong bilateral ties between their nations. This conversation took place just a day after Donald Trump assumed the presidency of the United States, with discussions predominantly revolving around future interactions with his administration. The Kremlin detailed that the dialogue extended for over 90 minutes, emphasizing the close partnership that has emerged, particularly following Russia’s military actions in Ukraine in 2022.
Putin and Xi have cultivated a robust personal relationship, which has led to enhanced collaboration, especially as China has become a significant market for Russian oil and gas amid ongoing Western sanctions against Moscow. In the call, Putin articulated that the Russia-China partnership is deeply rooted in mutual interests, equality, and benefits. He expressed that their relationship remains unaffected by domestic political shifts or the wider international climate.
The Russian leader remarked on their joint support for a fairer multipolar world order and emphasized their commitment to ensuring security in Eurasia and globally. He stated, “Joint efforts by Russia and China play an important stabilizing role in global affairs,” which reflects their intention to deliver a united front in international matters. In response, Xi acknowledged the depth of their cooperation, underscoring his willingness to elevate China-Russia relations amidst external uncertainties, aiming to enhance stability and resilience.
While the leaders did not directly reference Trump during their public communication, the Kremlin confirmed that they explored possible future connections with the newly inaugurated U.S. president. Previously, Xi had a conversation with Trump, where he expressed optimism for cultivating a positive relationship with the United States.
Trump’s previous remarks indicated a potential for friction with China, such as threats related to tariffs. However, he also acknowledged areas where the two nations might collaborate, such as addressing regional disputes and curbing the illicit trade of fentanyl. Yury Ushakov, Putin’s foreign affairs adviser, stated that their call had been prearranged and was not specifically a response to Trump’s inauguration, even though Xi did update Putin regarding his conversation with Trump.
Both leaders expressed a willingness to establish a productive relationship with the U.S. based on mutual respect and benefits, should Trump’s administration show genuine interest in fostering that dialogue. Putin, in his remarks, congratulated Trump and welcomed his expressed desire to engage with Moscow in discussions. Trump had mentioned to the media that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was keen on negotiating peace and suggested that Putin would face dire consequences if he failed to pursue a deal, given Russia’s current economic challenges, such as rampant inflation.
Ushakov chose not to comment on Trump’s claims, instead indicating that the Kremlin is awaiting “concrete proposals for potential discussions.” He affirmed Russia’s openness to a serious dialogue concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, subject to relevant signals from Washington, which have yet to be received.
In earlier remarks directed towards the Security Council prior to Trump’s inauguration, Putin praised the president-elect’s willingness to re-establish a dialogue, which he noted had been disrupted by the previous administration. He acknowledged Trump’s statements regarding the prevention of World War III, appreciating such a perspective and congratulating him on assuming office.
Putin accentuated the importance of conducting these discussions on an equitable basis and mutual respect, especially considering the significant roles both countries play in global issues related to stability and security. As he addressed the situation in Ukraine, he reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to engage with the Trump administration while reinforcing that dialogue must reflect respect for Russia’s interests. “The aim should not merely be a temporary ceasefire but rather a long-lasting peace that respects the rights of all individuals and nations in the region,” he asserted.
