During his visit to Moscow on May 8, Chinese leader Xi Jinping reaffirmed support for Russia, describing Putin as an ally in shaping a new global order and confirming a united stance on the conflict in Ukraine.

Source: Reuters citing the statement from the Chinese leader

Details: In a joint statement released after negotiations, the leaders of China and Russia emphasized that the Ukrainian conflict could only be resolved by addressing its root causes. This wording explicitly echoes key messages of Russian propaganda that the Kremlin uses to justify the onset of war, particularly the "threat of NATO expansion," "discrimination against Russian speakers," and the oppression of the Russian language and culture in Ukraine.

Word for word: "Xi's participation, along with the joint statement aligning China's position with the Russian perspective on the conflict, provides Putin with crucial support amidst pressure from the US to end the war."

Details: Xi also stated that Russia and China should be "true steel friends, tempered through numerous trials."

Furthermore, Xi and Putin pledged to enhance coordination across various sectors, including military, and to "resolutely counter the Washington policy of double containment" of China and Russia. The leaders also expressed their intention to personally oversee key areas of cooperation and ensure growth in trade and investment by 2030.

Background: Xi and Putin have met dozens of times and signed an agreement for "unlimited partnership" in February 2022, less than three weeks before Putin sent his troops into Ukraine. China is Russia's largest trading partner and has provided economic support that has helped Russia cope with Western sanctions.