Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a significant video meeting on January 21, just hours after the inauguration of US President Donald Trump. This conversation, framed as an annual tradition, underscored the strengthening ties between Beijing and Moscow amid increasing tensions with the West.

During the call, both leaders praised their diplomatic relationship, with Putin describing Xi as his "dear friend." The Russian leader expressed a desire to deepen their strategic partnership, stating, "We stand united in advocating for a more just multipolar world order." Xi reciprocated, emphasizing the importance of mutual support and cooperation between the two nations in response to "external uncertainties" in global politics, particularly with the U.S., which has adopted a hardline stance towards both Russia and China.

The meeting comes as both leaders seek to realign their international strategies in light of Trump's anticipated foreign policy shifts. Putin, who has noted the growing economic ties between the two nations, highlighted that trade reached nearly $245 billion in 2024, benefiting from their shared interests in countering U.S. influence globally CNN reported.

Despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Xi and Putin did not focus their discussion on the war, but instead touched on various international challenges, bonding over their views regarding U.S. dominance in world affairs. The video call lengthened to about one and a half hours, during which they jointly criticized what they perceive as Western hegemony Reuters noted.

A notable aspect of their discussion is how each leader hopes the other can influence relations with the new U.S. administration. While Trump has intimated he may confront both nations on trade practices and military activities, the Chinese and Russian leaders aim to stabilize their alliance and project a unified front Le Monde highlighted.

Trump's approach could significantly impact future interactions between the U.S. and these two major powers, as he explores the potential for a reset in relations with both Xi and Putin. This video call reaffirms their commitment to a close partnership, evident in remarks exchanged during this important diplomatic tradition India Times emphasized.