Russian President Vladimir Putin addresses a press conference in Moscow, Russia, on May 9. Ramil Sitdikov/Reuters
The Kremlin announced on Friday that Russian President Vladimir Putin aims to talk directly with Chinese leader Xi Jinping about US President Donald Trump’s trip to China during his upcoming visit to Beijing.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov informed journalists that Putin’s forthcoming trip to China – with the exact timing still undisclosed – will serve as “a great chance to discuss the interactions that have occurred between the Chinese and the Americans.”
“When the US and China hold direct conversations at the highest level … these interactions are certainly a focus of particular interest and scrutiny for all nations, including ours,” Peskov stated.
In a subtle jab at the US, Peskov stated while mentioning the US and China as the two largest economies globally: “In terms of purchasing power parity, China ranks as the top economy, with the United States in second place when measured absolutely.”
China is undeniably Russia’s most significant ally. Electronics produced in China are crucial for the Russian defense sector. As the largest purchaser of its oil, China serves as a crucial revenue source for the Kremlin during a period when the Russian economy is pressured due to the nation’s conflict with Ukraine.