Xi and Putin Meet to Strengthen Ties Against Potential U.S.-Led Order

What Happened?

Chinese President Xi Jinping told Russia's Vladimir Putin that their two countries should be ‘friends of steel’ in an effort to unite their forces.

Those remarks came on Thursday during Xi's visit to Moscow to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

It's a celebration of huge significance for Putin as he recently announced a temporary ceasefire that coincides with ‘Victory Day.’

A day when Russia celebrates its victory over the Nazi’s.

The two leaders reportedly pledged to raise cooperation to a new level between their respective countries.

According to Reuters, it's a move to 'decisively' counter the influence of the United States.

Both leaders plan to deepen relations in all areas, including military ties, as they cast themselves as defenders of a new world order against U.S. domination.

They also agreed on the Ukraine conflict being settled by removing its 'root causes.'

It's a phrase Russia reportedly used when arguing against the prospect of Ukraine joining NATO, which led to war.

But Ukraine and its Western allies called the pretext false for what they classified as an 'imperial-style invasion.'

Why it Matters

Xi's participation comes as the U.S. has added pressure on Russia to end its ongoing war with Ukraine.

The Trump administration and Ukrainian officials signed a rare minerals agreement that has begun to shift more attention to Russia's future actions.

Although Russia has stated it looks to repair its relationship with the U.S. post-Cold War, those expectations have recently sunk amid the conflict in Kyiv.

President Donald Trump has threatened to walk away from peace talks amid stagnation between both parties.

Vice President JD Vance told global officials Wednesday that Russia is 'asking for too much' in potential ceasefire efforts.

Moscow previously rejected the U.S. call for a 30-day ceasefire with Ukraine.

Xi and Putin's cooperation to unify could put U.S.-China trade negotiations at risk, which are aimed at de-escalating their ongoing trade war.

How it Affects You

The U.S. and China still hold high trade levies that many fear could spike a 2025 recession.

Xi reportedly said that China and Russia should solidify the foundations of their cooperation and ‘eliminate external interference.’

Western leaders reportedly worry that China could launch a similar attack on Taiwan, like Russia did on Ukraine in the next few years.

The U.S. is one of Taiwan's most important allies in preventing such actions.

If Russia and China decide to team up, it could significantly threaten the future security of U.S. relations.