Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday (May 18) claimed that a Russian drone struck a Chinese cargo vessel in the Black Sea overnight. This comes a day before the Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit Beijing to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping. Zelensky suggested that the Russians ought to have knowledge of the Chinese ship at sea. He also accused Moscow of causing destruction across eight regions, injuring dozens of people.“Drones struck Odesa ... and one of the UAVs hit a vessel owned by China. The Russians could not have been unaware of what vessel was at sea,” Zelensky said.A Ukrainian navy spokesman told AFP that none of the crew members, all Chinese nationals, were injured. He added that the vessel continued on its journey.“The ship was entering for loading. After it was hit at night by a Shahed, the crew coped with the consequences on their own. Fortunately, no one was injured, and the vessel continued on its way to its port of destination,” navy spokesman Dmytro Pletenchuk said.The Ukrainian navy has identified the vessel as KSL Deyang. It also released an image showing part of the upper deck blackened after the apparent hit.Zelensky said that Russia used 524 attack drones and 22 missiles, including ballistic and cruise missiles, in the attack. He urged European nations to possess their own anti-ballistic capabilities to face such threats.“Russia relies on ballistic missiles to strike people, and that is precisely why we in Europe must do everything possible to ensure reliable protection against this. Europe must have its own anti-ballistic systems and be self-sufficient in the face of these threats. We repeat once again: we need our own anti-ballistic capabilities and stronger Ukrainian air defence right now. This week will be focused on working with our partners to strengthen the protection of lives. I thank everyone already working on this together with Ukraine,” Zelensky said.

Ukrainian President Zelensky accused Russia of striking a Chinese cargo ship in the Black Sea during overnight drone attacks, ahead of Vladimir Putin’s planned visit to Beijing.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday (May 18) claimed that a Russian drone struck a Chinese cargo vessel in the Black Sea overnight. This comes a day before the Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit Beijing to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping. Zelensky suggested that the Russians ought to have knowledge of the Chinese ship at sea. He also accused Moscow of causing destruction across eight regions, injuring dozens of people. “Drones struck Odesa ... and one of the UAVs hit a vessel owned by China. The Russians could not have been unaware of what vessel was at sea,” Zelensky said. A Ukrainian navy spokesman told AFP that none of the crew members, all Chinese nationals, were injured. He added that the vessel continued on its journey. “The ship was entering for loading. After it was hit at night by a Shahed, the crew coped with the consequences on their own. Fortunately, no one was injured, and the vessel continued on its way to its port of destination,” navy spokesman Dmytro Pletenchuk said. The Ukrainian navy has identified the vessel as KSL Deyang. It also released an image showing part of the upper deck blackened after the apparent hit. Zelensky said that Russia used 524 attack drones and 22 missiles, including ballistic and cruise missiles, in the attack. He urged European nations to possess their own anti-ballistic capabilities to face such threats. “Russia relies on ballistic missiles to strike people, and that is precisely why we in Europe must do everything possible to ensure reliable protection against this. Europe must have its own anti-ballistic systems and be self-sufficient in the face of these threats. We repeat once again: we need our own anti-ballistic capabilities and stronger Ukrainian air defence right now. This week will be focused on working with our partners to strengthen the protection of lives. I thank everyone already working on this together with Ukraine,” Zelensky said.

Ukrainian President Zelensky accused Russia of striking a Chinese cargo ship in the Black Sea during overnight drone attacks, ahead of Vladimir Putin’s planned visit to Beijing.

‘Could not have been unaware’: Zelensky accuses Russia of striking Chinese cargo ship in Black Sea

China is gearing up for a massive military parade in Beijing next month to mark 80 years since Japan’s surrender in World War Two. The show of strength will feature tens of thousands of troops, hundreds of aircraft, and new-generation high-tech weapons — including hypersonic missiles and anti-ship systems.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to attend, as global attention turns to Beijing amid rising military tensions in the Indo-Pacific. This is the first such parade since 2015.


China’s giant WW2 parade to unveil hypersonic weapons | Putin to attend? 

Russia and China held some explosive joint military drills&nbsp;in the past five days till Tuesday (Aug 5), just days after President Donald Trump ordered the moving of US nuclear submarines in response to provocative rhetoric from Russian ex-president Dmitry Medvedev in the context of the Ukraine war. While these exercises were pre-planned, the symbolism of their firepower and use of anti-submarine warfare should not be missed.<h2>Maritime exercises of Russia and China had anti-submarine warfare drill&nbsp;</h2>The drills called ‘Maritime Interaction – 2025’ were held August 1-5 near Vladivostok, Russia, off the Sea of Japan. The exercises involved submarine rescue, anti-submarine warfare, air and missile defence, maritime combat and joint artillery drills.Russia's Admiral Tributs, a large anti-submarine ship, diesel-electric submarines and naval aviation assets were deployed in the exercise. China's guided-missile destroyers Shaoxing and Urumqi, at least one diesel-electric submarine and a submarine rescue ship took part in the drill.<h2>Advanced maritime capabilities of Russia and China were on display</h2>The inclusion of destroyers, submarines, and air defence assets showed that the two nations are preparing for high-intensity naval scenarios. The geopolitical messaging is clear from reports in the Russian and Chinese media, both state-controlled. The narratives there frame the drills as a pushback against "US hegemony" and global dominance.<h2>Non-hostile, yet noteworthy timing: Purpose, strategic context of Russia-China joint naval drills</h2>The drills are intended to deepen Russia–China strategic cooperation under their annual defence partnership. It was described as 'non-hostile' toward third parties but is being widely interpreted as a response to increasing US military presence in the region.The drills, which were in fact pre-planned, began just after Trump’s August 1 announcement repositioning two US nuclear submarines. Therefore, the exercises will surely be seen as a symbolic counter-move by Russia and China.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-russia-flex-military-might-in-explosive-joint-war-drills-1754379840913/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-russia-flex-military-might-in-explosive-joint-war-drills-1754379840913/embed</a><h2>Will China join Russia in a naval war against US?</h2>While it is too early to make such assumptions, the signs of strategic coordination between Russia and China are unmissable. This is part of the two nations' strengthening their "No-Limits" Partnership, the 2022 agreement that stressed joint resistance to US influence. Exercises like Joint Sea-2025 demonstrate the growing interoperability of the two militaries.<h2>But officially, neither China nor Russia are making hostile stances</h2>Any immediate Chinese military involvement is unlikely in the event of direct Russia-US hostilities. Both the Russian and Chinese governments have publicly stated that the drills are not targeting any third nation.China has carefully avoided any direct military entanglements or provocations against the US, with official statements regularly stressing on 'regional peace and stability.'At present, the Chinese military is focused on Taiwan and the South China Sea.

The inclusion of destroyers, submarines, and air defence assets showed that the two nations are preparing for high-intensity naval scenarios. The geopolitical messaging is clear from reports in the Russian and Chinese media, both state-controlled

Russia and China held some explosive joint military drills in the past five days till Tuesday (Aug 5), just days after President Donald Trump ordered the moving of US nuclear submarines in response to provocative rhetoric from Russian ex-president Dmitry Medvedev in the context of the Ukraine war. While these exercises were pre-planned, the symbolism of their firepower and use of anti-submarine warfare should not be missed. Maritime exercises of Russia and China had anti-submarine warfare drill The drills called ‘Maritime Interaction – 2025’ were held August 1-5 near Vladivostok, Russia, off the Sea of Japan. The exercises involved submarine rescue, anti-submarine warfare, air and missile defence, maritime combat and joint artillery drills. Russia's Admiral Tributs, a large anti-submarine ship, diesel-electric submarines and naval aviation assets were deployed in the exercise. China's guided-missile destroyers Shaoxing and Urumqi, at least one diesel-electric submarine and a submarine rescue ship took part in the drill. Advanced maritime capabilities of Russia and China were on display The inclusion of destroyers, submarines, and air defence assets showed that the two nations are preparing for high-intensity naval scenarios. The geopolitical messaging is clear from reports in the Russian and Chinese media, both state-controlled. The narratives there frame the drills as a pushback against "US hegemony" and global dominance. Non-hostile, yet noteworthy timing: Purpose, strategic context of Russia-China joint naval drills The drills are intended to deepen Russia–China strategic cooperation under their annual defence partnership. It was described as 'non-hostile' toward third parties but is being widely interpreted as a response to increasing US military presence in the region. The drills, which were in fact pre-planned, began just after Trump’s August 1 announcement repositioning two US nuclear submarines. Therefore, the exercises will surely be seen as a symbolic counter-move by Russia and China. https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-russia-flex-military-might-in-explosive-joint-war-drills-1754379840913/embed Will China join Russia in a naval war against US? While it is too early to make such assumptions, the signs of strategic coordination between Russia and China are unmissable. This is part of the two nations' strengthening their "No-Limits" Partnership, the 2022 agreement that stressed joint resistance to US influence. Exercises like Joint Sea-2025 demonstrate the growing interoperability of the two militaries. But officially, neither China nor Russia are making hostile stances Any immediate Chinese military involvement is unlikely in the event of direct Russia-US hostilities. Both the Russian and Chinese governments have publicly stated that the drills are not targeting any third nation. China has carefully avoided any direct military entanglements or provocations against the US, with official statements regularly stressing on 'regional peace and stability.' At present, the Chinese military is focused on Taiwan and the South China Sea.

The inclusion of destroyers, submarines, and air defence assets showed that the two nations are preparing for high-intensity naval scenarios. The geopolitical messaging is clear from reports in the Russian and Chinese media, both state-controlled

Don't miss the symbolism: Russian, Chinese navies hold joint drills days after Trump moves US nuclear submarines

The Kremlin said on Wednesday it was not concerned by China increasing the capabilities of its nuclear arsenal, stressing Moscow's "advanced strategic partnership" with Beijing and China's sovereign right to ensure its own security.

China has&nbsp;launched&nbsp;its first nuclear-powered guided missile submarines, according to the Pentagon's latest report on China's military, giving it land and sea attack options that were once the sole province of US&nbsp;and Russian vessels.

"This does not cause us concern, our relations are an advanced strategic partnership, we have the most advanced stage of political dialogue, economic interaction," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

"And in this case, China, which faces very serious challenges for its own security in the region, is taking steps that it considers appropriate."

"This is the absolute sovereign right of this country."

Russia has forged even closer commercial, political and security ties with China, part of what they call a "no limits" partnership, since Moscow's decision to send tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine in February 2022, triggering sweeping Western sanctions.

The Pentagon&nbsp;report, published on Oct. 20, marks the first apparent confirmation that modified submarines seen in Chinese shipyards over the last 18 months are Type 093B guided missile submarines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-gaining-ground-in-new-york-poll-shows-dip-in-bidens-popularity-rise-in-trumps-651196">Trump gaining ground in New York? Poll shows dip in Biden's popularity, rise in Trump's</a>

Russia has been tweaking its own legislation on nuclear matters this month, with parliament on Wednesday&nbsp;completing&nbsp;the passage of a law that withdraws Moscow's ratification of the global treaty banning nuclear weapons tests.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greta-thunberg-kicked-out-of-israeli-textbooks-after-stand-with-gaza-row-651005">Greta Thunberg kicked out of Israeli textbooks after 'stand with Gaza' row</a>

Russia says it will not resume nuclear testing unless Washington does, but arms control experts are concerned it may be inching towards a test that the West would perceive as a threatening escalation in the context of the Ukraine war. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Kremlin said on Wednesday it was not concerned by China increasing the capabilities of its nuclear arsenal, stressing Moscow's "advanced strategic partnership" with Beijing and China's sovereign right to ensure its own security.

The Kremlin said on Wednesday it was not concerned by China increasing the capabilities of its nuclear arsenal, stressing Moscow's "advanced strategic partnership" with Beijing and China's sovereign right to ensure its own security. China has launched its first nuclear-powered guided missile submarines, according to the Pentagon's latest report on China's military, giving it land and sea attack options that were once the sole province of US and Russian vessels. "This does not cause us concern, our relations are an advanced strategic partnership, we have the most advanced stage of political dialogue, economic interaction," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. "And in this case, China, which faces very serious challenges for its own security in the region, is taking steps that it considers appropriate." "This is the absolute sovereign right of this country." Russia has forged even closer commercial, political and security ties with China, part of what they call a "no limits" partnership, since Moscow's decision to send tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine in February 2022, triggering sweeping Western sanctions. The Pentagon report, published on Oct. 20, marks the first apparent confirmation that modified submarines seen in Chinese shipyards over the last 18 months are Type 093B guided missile submarines. Also read | Trump gaining ground in New York? Poll shows dip in Biden's popularity, rise in Trump's Russia has been tweaking its own legislation on nuclear matters this month, with parliament on Wednesday completing the passage of a law that withdraws Moscow's ratification of the global treaty banning nuclear weapons tests. Also read | Greta Thunberg kicked out of Israeli textbooks after 'stand with Gaza' row Russia says it will not resume nuclear testing unless Washington does, but arms control experts are concerned it may be inching towards a test that the West would perceive as a threatening escalation in the context of the Ukraine war. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia unconcerned by China increasing nuclear arsenal capabilities, says Kremlin

Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in Beijing Tuesday&nbsp;ahead of his meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) forum.&nbsp;

Putin is amongst the representatives of 130 nations attending the forum, but he is all set to further strengthen his already strong partnership with Xi&nbsp;in the wake of new geopolitical challenges induced by the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

<h2>Focus of the talks</h2>

As of now, both sides have refrained from sharing any details but it is expected that “special attention will be paid to international and regional issues,” according to a statement from the Kremlin.

Experts see this visit by Putin as more of a symbolic gesture and don’t expect any high-publicity deal. "Russia is aware that China doesn't want to sign any high publicity deals," Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center was quoted as saying by AFP.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Can regional players negotiate ceasefire as Russia, China want a stake

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For China, Russia continues to be one of its few allies acting as a bulwark against the West. Meanwhile, for Moscow, Beijing has increasingly become a reliable trading and geopolitical partner, especially after its invasion of Ukraine.

"Since Moscow embarked on its all-out invasion of Ukraine, it has been put in a position where it is unprecedentedly dependent on China," Bjorn Alexander Duben of China's Jilin University was quoted as saying by AFP.

<h2>Lavrov- Wang meeting</h2>

Earlier on Monday, the top diplomats of China and Russia met in Beijing and discussed their bilateral ties "in their entirety". Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov thanked his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi for inviting Putin as “Chief Guest” to the BRI summit.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fukushima-nuclear-plant-like-china-russia-suspends-all-japanese-seafood-imports-647527">Also read:&nbsp;Fukushima plant water release: Russia follows China, suspends all Japanese seafood imports</a>

Wang, in turn, said China "appreciates" Russia's support for the Belt and Road Initiative.

"Both sides should plan commemorative activities, deepen strategic mutual trust, consolidate traditional friendship, and promote friendship from generation to generation," he said.

<h2>On Israel-Hamas war</h2>

As the Israel-Hamas war rages on, the topic is expected to come up in talks between the top leaders of Russia and China.&nbsp;

Both nations have failed to condemn Hamas for its deadly terror attacks on Israel and share extremely amicable ties with Iran, a major backer of the terrorist outfit.

Russia has expressed its willingness to help both warring parties reach a peaceful settlement. The Kremlin on Monday (Oct 16) said it was willing to work towards "ending the Palestinian-Israeli confrontation and achieving a peaceful settlement through political and diplomatic means".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in Beijing Tuesday ahead of his meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) forum.

Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in Beijing Tuesday ahead of his meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) on the sidelines of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) forum. Putin is amongst the representatives of 130 nations attending the forum, but he is all set to further strengthen his already strong partnership with Xi in the wake of new geopolitical challenges induced by the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Focus of the talks As of now, both sides have refrained from sharing any details but it is expected that “special attention will be paid to international and regional issues,” according to a statement from the Kremlin. Experts see this visit by Putin as more of a symbolic gesture and don’t expect any high-publicity deal. "Russia is aware that China doesn't want to sign any high publicity deals," Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center was quoted as saying by AFP. Watch: Israel-Palestine war: Can regional players negotiate ceasefire as Russia, China want a stake × For China, Russia continues to be one of its few allies acting as a bulwark against the West. Meanwhile, for Moscow, Beijing has increasingly become a reliable trading and geopolitical partner, especially after its invasion of Ukraine. "Since Moscow embarked on its all-out invasion of Ukraine, it has been put in a position where it is unprecedentedly dependent on China," Bjorn Alexander Duben of China's Jilin University was quoted as saying by AFP. Lavrov- Wang meeting Earlier on Monday, the top diplomats of China and Russia met in Beijing and discussed their bilateral ties "in their entirety". Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov thanked his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi for inviting Putin as “Chief Guest” to the BRI summit. Also read: Fukushima plant water release: Russia follows China, suspends all Japanese seafood imports Wang, in turn, said China "appreciates" Russia's support for the Belt and Road Initiative. "Both sides should plan commemorative activities, deepen strategic mutual trust, consolidate traditional friendship, and promote friendship from generation to generation," he said. On Israel-Hamas war As the Israel-Hamas war rages on, the topic is expected to come up in talks between the top leaders of Russia and China. Both nations have failed to condemn Hamas for its deadly terror attacks on Israel and share extremely amicable ties with Iran, a major backer of the terrorist outfit. Russia has expressed its willingness to help both warring parties reach a peaceful settlement. The Kremlin on Monday (Oct 16) said it was willing to work towards "ending the Palestinian-Israeli confrontation and achieving a peaceful settlement through political and diplomatic means". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Putin-Xi meeting: What’s on agenda and why no high-publicity deals are expected

Russian President Vladimir Putin is heading to China next week to meet "dear friend" Xi Jinping in order to forge even closer ties with the country which is viewed as a key strategic relationship in global politics. Experts are increasingly of the view that Moscow is fast becoming a junior partner in this equation.

On October 17-18, Beijing is playing host to representatives from 130 countries to mark a decade of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It is a key geopolitical project of Chinese President Xi Jinping which seeks to expand China's global reach.

All eyes will be on Putin, who last month, met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Saint Petersburg and said he had "gladly accepted" Xi's invitation to visit China for the BRI congregation.

Watch | China's fertility rate drops to record low

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Russia's strategic dependence on China has only increased after the global isolation Moscow faced after Ukraine's invasion.

The trade between the two countries has soared considerably since the beginning of Ukraine invasion. As international sanctions increasingly cornered Russian economy, Chinese imports of Russian oil was a critical lifeline to Moscow.

Last year, bilateral trade soared to record USD 190 billion, says the Chinese customs data. Both countries have pledged to take this to USD 200 billion this year.

In the aftermath of Russia's Ukraine invasion, China provided diplomatic cover and refused to condemn the war. China positioned itself as a neutral party but the stance was seen as benefitting Russia in global diplomatic circles.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/combat-veteran-is-top-contender-to-replace-chinas-missing-defence-minister-646488">Combat veteran is top contender to replace China's missing defence minister</a>

"Beijing has maintained a posture of 'pro-Russia neutrality' throughout the invasion, providing critical diplomatic, economic, and non-lethal military assistance to Moscow," Joseph Webster, senior fellow at the Atlantic Council's Global Energy Center, told AFP.

<h2>The shared struggle</h2>

China and Russia see their alliance as a symbiotic necessity and as a bulwark against Western dominance.

When President Xi Jinping made state visit to Moscow in March, he had hailed the "truly unlimited possibilities" in the partnership of the countries.

In May, the Chinese leader told Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin that Beijing and Moscow would continue to offer each other "firm support on issues concerning each other's core interests".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin is heading to China next week to meet "dear friend" Xi Jinping in order to forge even closer ties with the country which is viewed as a key strategic relationship in global politics.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is heading to China next week to meet "dear friend" Xi Jinping in order to forge even closer ties with the country which is viewed as a key strategic relationship in global politics. Experts are increasingly of the view that Moscow is fast becoming a junior partner in this equation. On October 17-18, Beijing is playing host to representatives from 130 countries to mark a decade of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It is a key geopolitical project of Chinese President Xi Jinping which seeks to expand China's global reach. All eyes will be on Putin, who last month, met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Saint Petersburg and said he had "gladly accepted" Xi's invitation to visit China for the BRI congregation. Watch | China's fertility rate drops to record low × Russia's strategic dependence on China has only increased after the global isolation Moscow faced after Ukraine's invasion. The trade between the two countries has soared considerably since the beginning of Ukraine invasion. As international sanctions increasingly cornered Russian economy, Chinese imports of Russian oil was a critical lifeline to Moscow. Last year, bilateral trade soared to record USD 190 billion, says the Chinese customs data. Both countries have pledged to take this to USD 200 billion this year. In the aftermath of Russia's Ukraine invasion, China provided diplomatic cover and refused to condemn the war. China positioned itself as a neutral party but the stance was seen as benefitting Russia in global diplomatic circles. Also Read | Combat veteran is top contender to replace China's missing defence minister "Beijing has maintained a posture of 'pro-Russia neutrality' throughout the invasion, providing critical diplomatic, economic, and non-lethal military assistance to Moscow," Joseph Webster, senior fellow at the Atlantic Council's Global Energy Center, told AFP. The shared struggle China and Russia see their alliance as a symbiotic necessity and as a bulwark against Western dominance. When President Xi Jinping made state visit to Moscow in March, he had hailed the "truly unlimited possibilities" in the partnership of the countries. In May, the Chinese leader told Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin that Beijing and Moscow would continue to offer each other "firm support on issues concerning each other's core interests". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Vladimir Putin to head to China as two countries draw ever closer

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a video conference on Friday, in which the former invited Xi to make a state visit to Russia in spring 2023. The visit, if it happens, would be a public show of solidarity from Beijing as Russia tried to salvage its fortunes in its war on Ukraine.

In introductory remarks between the two leaders broadcast on state television, Putin said, "We are expecting you, dear Mr Chairman, dear friend, we are expecting you next spring on a state visit to Moscow."

He said the visit would "demonstrate to the world the closeness of Russian-Chinese relations".

Putin, in his eight-minute address, stressed the importance of having China as an ally. He said Russia-China relations were growing in importance as a stabilising factor. Putin also aims to deepen military cooperation between the two countries.

Responding to Putin's friendly address, Xi said China was ready to increase strategic cooperation with Russia during a "difficult" situation in the world at large.

While Russia finds itself isolated amidst its war in Ukraine, with sanctions being imposed against it by Western countries, China has emerged as a significant partner of Moscow. The two sides have hailed their relationship as a "no limits" partnership. China has refrained from condemning Moscow's military campaign in Ukraine and has instead stressed the need for peace.

In matters of trade, Russian energy exports to China have risen significantly since the outbreak of the conflict and Moscow is&nbsp;now China's single largest oil supplier. However, Beijing hasn't reciprocated with material support fearing the move might provoke Western sanctions against China.

At a September summit in Uzbekistan, Putin acknowledged his Chinese counterpart's "concerns" about the situation in Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a video conference on Friday, in which the former invited Xi to make a state visit to Russia in spring 2023.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a video conference on Friday, in which the former invited Xi to make a state visit to Russia in spring 2023. The visit, if it happens, would be a public show of solidarity from Beijing as Russia tried to salvage its fortunes in its war on Ukraine. In introductory remarks between the two leaders broadcast on state television, Putin said, "We are expecting you, dear Mr Chairman, dear friend, we are expecting you next spring on a state visit to Moscow." He said the visit would "demonstrate to the world the closeness of Russian-Chinese relations". Putin, in his eight-minute address, stressed the importance of having China as an ally. He said Russia-China relations were growing in importance as a stabilising factor. Putin also aims to deepen military cooperation between the two countries. Responding to Putin's friendly address, Xi said China was ready to increase strategic cooperation with Russia during a "difficult" situation in the world at large. While Russia finds itself isolated amidst its war in Ukraine, with sanctions being imposed against it by Western countries, China has emerged as a significant partner of Moscow. The two sides have hailed their relationship as a "no limits" partnership. China has refrained from condemning Moscow's military campaign in Ukraine and has instead stressed the need for peace. In matters of trade, Russian energy exports to China have risen significantly since the outbreak of the conflict and Moscow is now China's single largest oil supplier. However, Beijing hasn't reciprocated with material support fearing the move might provoke Western sanctions against China. At a September summit in Uzbekistan, Putin acknowledged his Chinese counterpart's "concerns" about the situation in Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin extends invite to Chinese President Xi for a spring 2023 state visit to Russia

United States has threatened China with sanctions if it decided to provide “material support” to Russia.

In a veiled warning to Xi Jinping, US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman on Wednesday said that a range of sanctions announced by the West and its allies should serve as an example of what is expected to come should China sides with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"It gives President Xi, I think, a pretty good understanding of what might come his way should he, in fact, support Putin in any material fashion," Sherman told a House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee hearing, according to news agency Reuters.

She further said that Beijing should take note of the coordinated Western response over Ukraine if it holds aspirations of invading democratically governed island of Taiwan by force.

"We hope that the PRC (People's Republic of China) understands that any such action would see a response from the international community, not just from the United States," she added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-says-russia-hiding-thousands-killed-in-mariupol-468954">Ukrainian President Zelensky says Russia hiding 'thousands' killed in Mariupol</a>

US has been repeatedly warning China of consequences if it sides with Russia in Ukraine war.

In March, US President Joe Biden warned Xi during a video call against providing any material support to help Russia counter Western sanctions or to provide military assistance.

Biden later said that China knows its economic future is tied to the West, not Russia

China has so far refused to condemn the war and criticised the West for imposing sanctions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-impact-of-war-on-ukraines-comedian-president-and-an-unlikely-wartime-leader-468665">How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky</a>

China’s relations with Russia have come under even closer scrutiny since the two countries declared a “no limits” partnership in early February.

Western intelligence reports claimed that China knew in advance of Putin’s plans to invade Ukraine, and had reportedly urged the Russian president to delay the war until the Beijing Winter Olympics ends.

However, China has denied making any such request, and trashed the report as “baseless allegations.”

Watch |&nbsp;US sanctions Putin's adult children amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

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(With inputs from agencies)

United States has threatened China with sanctions if it decided to provide “material support” to Russia. In a veiled warning to Xi Jinping, US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman on Wednesday said that a range of sanctions announced by the West and its allies should serve as an example of what is expected to come should China sides with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

United States has threatened China with sanctions if it decided to provide “material support” to Russia. In a veiled warning to Xi Jinping, US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman on Wednesday said that a range of sanctions announced by the West and its allies should serve as an example of what is expected to come should China sides with Russian President Vladimir Putin. "It gives President Xi, I think, a pretty good understanding of what might come his way should he, in fact, support Putin in any material fashion," Sherman told a House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee hearing, according to news agency Reuters. She further said that Beijing should take note of the coordinated Western response over Ukraine if it holds aspirations of invading democratically governed island of Taiwan by force. "We hope that the PRC (People's Republic of China) understands that any such action would see a response from the international community, not just from the United States," she added. Also read | Ukrainian President Zelensky says Russia hiding 'thousands' killed in Mariupol US has been repeatedly warning China of consequences if it sides with Russia in Ukraine war. In March, US President Joe Biden warned Xi during a video call against providing any material support to help Russia counter Western sanctions or to provide military assistance. Biden later said that China knows its economic future is tied to the West, not Russia China has so far refused to condemn the war and criticised the West for imposing sanctions. Also read | How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky China’s relations with Russia have come under even closer scrutiny since the two countries declared a “no limits” partnership in early February. Western intelligence reports claimed that China knew in advance of Putin’s plans to invade Ukraine, and had reportedly urged the Russian president to delay the war until the Beijing Winter Olympics ends. However, China has denied making any such request, and trashed the report as “baseless allegations.” Watch | US sanctions Putin's adult children amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: US threatens Beijing with sanctions if it provides ‘material support’ to Moscow

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping held a video call on Wednesday to discuss bilateral relations and international affairs, a summit that comes amid heightened tensions over Ukraine.

Russia and China hold virtual talks; energy, trade and investment on agenda

India, Russia, and China have joined hands to ensure humanitarian assistance reaches the people of Afghanistan. This was discussed in the 18th meeting of RIC (Russia, India, and China) nations.

India, Russia, and China to work together to combat terror

Russian and Chinese warships held their first joint patrols in the Western part of the Pacific ocean on October 17-23, Russia's defence ministry said in a statement on Saturday.

Russian & Chinese navies hold first ever joint patrol

In a thinly-veiled attack on the US, Chinese President Xi Jinping said China is not afraid of war. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has hinted at a possible Russia-China military alliance in the future. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Xi Jinping says China is not afraid of war

Russian authorities are considering chartering a plane from China to fly over parents who have been estranged from their babies born to surrogates in Russia due to coronavirus restrictions

Russia mulls sending charter plane to China

Is Russia distancing itself from China? A report claims that Russia has postponed the delivery of S-400 Missile System to China. It comes weeks after Moscow accused Beijing of spying. What does this mean for India?

Gravitas: Why Russia suspended the delivery of S-400 to China

Russia is not in talks with Washington about its potential role at an expanded Group of Seven summit later this year, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Saturday. He also insisted that China should also be included in the event.

His comments to TASS news agency countered those of John Sullivan, US ambassador to Russia, who told RBC TV on Friday that Washington was "engaged with the Russian Foreign Ministry and with the other G7 governments about whether there is an appropriate role for Russia at the G7."

US President Donald Trump has raised the prospect of Russia's return to the group, which includes the world's most advanced economies, after it was expelled in the wake of its annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. Russia had been part the group, then known as the G8, since 1997.

Trump said last month it was "common sense" to invite President Vladimir Putin to rejoin the group.

Other G7 nations, including Canada and France, have objected to Russia's return, however. 
Ryabkov said that the absence of China from an expanded G7 summit would make it impossible to discuss international issues.

Trump in May announced he was postponing a G7 summit until September or later and expanding the list of invitees to include Australia, Russia, South Korea and India. 
Australia has accepted the US invitation to take part.

Russia is not in talks with Washington about its potential role at an expanded Group of Seven summit later this year, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Saturday.

Russia is not in talks with Washington about its potential role at an expanded Group of Seven summit later this year, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Saturday. He also insisted that China should also be included in the event. His comments to TASS news agency countered those of John Sullivan, US ambassador to Russia, who told RBC TV on Friday that Washington was "engaged with the Russian Foreign Ministry and with the other G7 governments about whether there is an appropriate role for Russia at the G7." US President Donald Trump has raised the prospect of Russia's return to the group, which includes the world's most advanced economies, after it was expelled in the wake of its annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. Russia had been part the group, then known as the G8, since 1997. Trump said last month it was "common sense" to invite President Vladimir Putin to rejoin the group. Other G7 nations, including Canada and France, have objected to Russia's return, however. Ryabkov said that the absence of China from an expanded G7 summit would make it impossible to discuss international issues. Trump in May announced he was postponing a G7 summit until September or later and expanding the list of invitees to include Australia, Russia, South Korea and India. Australia has accepted the US invitation to take part.

Russia says China would be needed in expanded G7 summit

Are Russia & China best friends - or is this an alliance of convenience?

Gravitas: China: Russia's old best friend?

The clout of China, or the authoritative regime of Xi Jinping to be precise, is growing over modern day Russia, standing to hamper its alliance with India. And New Delhi should be worried.

The China-Russia axis is not just about economics. Both countries have similar origins and the same ideological core.

In the early 20th century, both China and Russia -- then known as the Soviet Union -- were in the middle of communist revolutions.&nbsp;

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In Russia, it was Joseph Stalin who rose to power.

Stalin's Russia then actively helped Mao Zedong to take power in China.&nbsp;

In fact, Mao even trained both communist leaders.

Both had a cult of personality -- that gave them complete control over their countries.

Several years later, the Soviet Union collapsed, but communism didn't die.

China took lessons from the fall of the Soviet Union, and created a new and uglier brand of communism.

Today, the Communist Party has complete control on China. It wants to bring weaker nations under its sphere of influence, and mould international institutions using Chinese characteristics.

Russia, which forgot a pandemic on Wednesday to celebrate the success of Stalin against the Nazis, has found an old best friend in China.

Both China and Russia share similar values on the global stage. They are lead by strong leaders -- just like the times of Mao and Stalin -- Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin respectively.

Both leaders enjoy a cult of personality that is unrivalled. Their grip on power is absolute, and their friendship is there for the world to see.

Last year, at Xi's birthday, Putin had arrived bearing gifts -- a giant box of ice cream to be exact.

There are many such moments that stand out in the friendship of Putin and Xi. They have done photo-ops together; they have unveiled pandas at the Moscow zoo together; and they have cooked together, and that too not once, but twice.

In 2018, Putin made dumplings with Xi Jinping during a visit to China.

And when Xi came to Russia, they made pancakes together.

This bromance has resulted in a strong Russia-China partnership. And this is one friendship that India needs to be wary of.

The economic ties are the foundation of the Russia-China relationship.

China is Russia's biggest trading partner, and its largest Asian investor. As of September last year, Russia had a little over 12 per cent of its foreign currency assets in the Chinese currency.&nbsp;

Considering the various American sanctions on Russia, Moscow had shifted its reserves to the Euro and Yuan.

But despite being the best of friends, both countries don't see eye to eye on all issues. For example, China does not recognise Crimea as part of Russia.

Russia too hasn't backed China's claims over the entire South China sea.

And it is these differences that New Delhi needs to leverage -- if it wants to keep Russia on its side.

The clout of China, or the authoritative regime of Xi Jinping to be precise, is growing over modern day Russia, standing to hamper its alliance with India. And New Delhi should be worried.

The clout of China, or the authoritative regime of Xi Jinping to be precise, is growing over modern day Russia, standing to hamper its alliance with India. And New Delhi should be worried. The China-Russia axis is not just about economics. Both countries have similar origins and the same ideological core. In the early 20th century, both China and Russia -- then known as the Soviet Union -- were in the middle of communist revolutions. × In Russia, it was Joseph Stalin who rose to power. Stalin's Russia then actively helped Mao Zedong to take power in China. In fact, Mao even trained both communist leaders. Both had a cult of personality -- that gave them complete control over their countries. Several years later, the Soviet Union collapsed, but communism didn't die. China took lessons from the fall of the Soviet Union, and created a new and uglier brand of communism. Today, the Communist Party has complete control on China. It wants to bring weaker nations under its sphere of influence, and mould international institutions using Chinese characteristics. Russia, which forgot a pandemic on Wednesday to celebrate the success of Stalin against the Nazis, has found an old best friend in China. Both China and Russia share similar values on the global stage. They are lead by strong leaders -- just like the times of Mao and Stalin -- Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin respectively. Both leaders enjoy a cult of personality that is unrivalled. Their grip on power is absolute, and their friendship is there for the world to see. Last year, at Xi's birthday, Putin had arrived bearing gifts -- a giant box of ice cream to be exact. There are many such moments that stand out in the friendship of Putin and Xi. They have done photo-ops together; they have unveiled pandas at the Moscow zoo together; and they have cooked together, and that too not once, but twice. In 2018, Putin made dumplings with Xi Jinping during a visit to China. And when Xi came to Russia, they made pancakes together. This bromance has resulted in a strong Russia-China partnership. And this is one friendship that India needs to be wary of. The economic ties are the foundation of the Russia-China relationship. China is Russia's biggest trading partner, and its largest Asian investor. As of September last year, Russia had a little over 12 per cent of its foreign currency assets in the Chinese currency. Considering the various American sanctions on Russia, Moscow had shifted its reserves to the Euro and Yuan. But despite being the best of friends, both countries don't see eye to eye on all issues. For example, China does not recognise Crimea as part of Russia. Russia too hasn't backed China's claims over the entire South China sea. And it is these differences that New Delhi needs to leverage -- if it wants to keep Russia on its side.

How India-Russia alliance faces its biggest threat in China

The RIC meet is being held under the shadow of the India-China border standoff. There are clear indications that there may not be a joint statement following the meet.

EAM S Jaishankar addresses Russian & Chinese ministers at RIC meet 2020

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