A Defiant Alliance: Putin and Xi Stand Together

In a power-packed meeting on Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping delivered a united front against the United States, setting the stage for their collaboration just ahead of Moscow’s grand celebration of the 80th anniversary of victory over Nazi Germany.

Held at the Kremlin, the talks marked a critical moment in a state visit designed for Xi before he joins other global leaders for a military parade in Red Square. In their joint statement, both leaders condemned U.S. attempts to isolate them and committed to enhancing their cooperation to counter such pressures.

Shared Challenges and a New World Order

As they navigate the unpredictability of President Trump—who is creating seismic waves in both Eastern Europe and the global economy—Putin and Xi have positioned their nations as powerful alternatives in a world yearning for a multipolar order, free from U.S. domination.

This strategic partnership reflects a commitment to mutual support, especially as Trump maintains a complex relationship with both leaders: cozying up to Putin while applying pressure on Xi.

A Stark Warning on Missile Defense

During the discussions, the two leaders expressed deep concern over Trump's ambitious plans for a 'Golden Dome' missile defense system. They labeled it 'deeply destabilizing', arguing it would contribute to the militarization of space.

Summit Shaping a Bloc of Authoritarian Allies

As Putin prepared to host over 25 world leaders at the Red Square event, it was clear that Xi was the most significant guest. As Western sanctions isolate Russia further due to its invasion of Ukraine, China's support has been crucial—ranging from oil purchases to replacing Western brands with Chinese goods.

Emphasis on Trust and Mutual Defense

In his initial remarks, Xi emphasized the importance of building a trustworthy friendship between their nations. Both leaders nostalgically evoked their countries' sacrifices during World War II, framing their current struggle against U.S. unilateralism as a defense of a fair, just world.

De-Dollarization and Space Exploration

Putin touted the shift in Russian-Chinese trade to their own currencies, which he claimed shields both nations from outside influences. Furthermore, they announced a groundbreaking collaboration between their space agencies to create a nuclear power plant on the moon—the first step toward a permanent lunar research base.

A Powerful Legacy and Ominous Overtones

Both leaders also wielded the significant memory of WWII to rally support. While Putin has been criticized for weaponizing historical narratives to justify current conflicts, he continues to link these themes to his military efforts in Ukraine.

As commemorations of the Soviet victory unfold against a backdrop of heightened tensions with the West and an altered Russian society reminiscent of Soviet times, Putin's rhetoric against Ukraine sharply resonates with a historical legacy meant to unify and stir patriotism.