Trump was sworn in, Putin and Xi praised their relationship

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping celebrated the strengthening of their nations’ partnership during a video call on Tuesday, held just hours after Donald Trump’s inauguration as U.S. president.

Trump has vowed a tough approach toward Washington’s adversaries, including imposing heavy tariffs on Beijing and warning Moscow of “big trouble” over its handling of the Ukraine conflict.

Addressing Xi as his “dear friend,” Putin emphasized the resilience of Russia-China relations, stating they are built on “friendship, mutual trust, and support” despite external pressures.

“Russia and China’s joint work plays an important stabilizing role in international affairs,” Putin noted during the call.

Xi, in turn, expressed his commitment to elevating ties with Russia to “new heights” this year, as reported by Chinese state broadcaster CCTV.

“Both sides should continue to deepen strategic coordination, resolutely support each other, and safeguard the legitimate interests of both countries,” Xi said, according to CCTV. He also highlighted the need to “expand bilateral relations and drive practical cooperation to deeper levels.”

The partnership between Moscow and Beijing has grown notably in military and trade spheres since Russia’s military actions in Ukraine, a development that has raised alarms in Washington, where both nations are regarded as major challenges to global stability.

While China has presented itself as a neutral party in the nearly three-year conflict, its political and economic ties with Moscow remain robust. Beijing has not condemned Russia’s actions, leading some NATO members to label China an “enabler” of the conflict.

Both leaders have frequently emphasized their personal bond, with Xi describing Putin as his “best friend” and Putin referring to Xi as his “reliable partner,” underscoring the deep ties between the two countries.