Chinese President Xi Jinping met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Thursday, pledging to deepen China-Russia ties as “friends of steel” amid rising global tensions. The meeting, held during the 80th anniversary of World War Two’s end, showcased their united front against U.S. influence and support for a reshaped global order.

Xi emphasized that China and Russia must resist external interference and uphold international fairness, calling for stronger strategic cooperation. Putin praised Xi’s visit as symbolic and significant, highlighting shared efforts to preserve historical truth and resist “neo-Nazism,” a narrative used by Moscow to justify its invasion of Ukraine—an assertion rejected by Kyiv and its allies.

The two leaders reaffirmed their “no limits” strategic partnership first declared in February 2022, just weeks before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. With China as Russia’s top trading partner, Beijing has provided Moscow with critical economic support amid Western sanctions.

Xi's visit comes as both nations face mounting pressure from the United States. President Donald Trump has urged Russia and Ukraine to agree to a peace deal, warning of consequences if talks stall. Last week, Putin declared a unilateral three-day ceasefire, though Ukraine dismissed it as a ploy and demanded a minimum 30-day truce. Despite the declared ceasefire, fighting continues in eastern Ukraine, with both sides accusing each other of violations.

Xi reiterated China’s call for peace talks and criticized U.S. arms support to Kyiv. Chinese troops are expected to participate in Friday’s Victory Day parade in Red Square, a move Ukraine condemned, citing concerns over neutrality.

With Xi’s backing, Putin aims to project strength and global legitimacy despite continued war in Ukraine and economic isolation by the West.