Putin and Xi to Sign Series of Deals During Moscow Summit Amid Ukraine War

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are set to sign a “series” of bilateral agreements during Xi’s upcoming visit to Moscow, scheduled for May 7–11. The summit coincides with Russia’s annual Victory Day celebrations and comes as the war in Ukraine continues to reshape global alliances, The Gaze reports, citing The Telegraph. 

According to the Kremlin, the leaders will hold formal talks aimed at strengthening the “partnership and strategic cooperation” between Russia and China. The visit marks another step in the increasingly close ties between the two countries, which have grown notably tighter since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

While the West has repeatedly accused China of supplying critical components and dual-use goods to bolster Russia’s military capabilities, Beijing has maintained an officially neutral stance. Xi has not endorsed the invasion but has also refrained from condemning it. He has, however, previously warned Putin against the use of nuclear weapons—remarks that added a cautious tone to China’s balancing act.

In a televised interview ahead of the summit, Putin said he “hoped” nuclear weapons would not be necessary in Ukraine, a statement likely aimed at international observers wary of escalation. “I hope they will not be required,” he told Russian state television.

The visit also aligns with Putin’s call for a temporary ceasefire during the May 9 Victory Day celebrations. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected the suggestion outright, stating that Kyiv “will not play games to create a pleasant atmosphere” during Russia’s symbolic holiday.

As am previously reported, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, citing information from intelligence, said that China is supplying Russia with artillery and gunpowder, and that the Chinese are also producing some weapons in Russia.