• Xi Jinping is in Moscow to celebrate the 80th anniversary of WWII and strengthen ties with Vladimir Putin.
• The two leaders reaffirmed their 'no limits partnership' amid increasing Western pressure.
• China has become a crucial economic partner for Russia, particularly in energy resources.
• Putin praised their relationship as a "genuine example" of international cooperation.
• The visit signifies China's stance against "hegemonic bullying" from the U.S.

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Moscow for a significant three-day visit coinciding with Victory Day celebrations, aimed at showcasing support for Russian President Vladimir Putin. During the visit, both leaders reaffirmed their "no limits partnership" established shortly before Russia's Ukraine offensive in February 2022, which has since escalated military and trade ties, causing concern among Western nations. As Xi stated, they would "jointly resist any attempt to interfere with and undermine the China-Russia friendship," highlighting the resilience of their relationship amid rising tensions with the U.S., according to India Times and Africanews.

The Kremlin noted that Xi’s presence underscores a pivotal alliance, marking the celebration of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany as "the grandest" event ever, amidst what Western nations view as an increasingly aggressive stance from Moscow. As Putin welcomed Xi at the Kremlin, both leaders emphasized their commitment to enhance diplomatic and strategic ties, with plans for greater trade investments and mutual cooperation outlined in their discussions. The formal talks included discussions on Ukraine and Russia-U.S. relations, as Xi aims to rally support against "unilateralism" and push for a multipolar world order, according to Channel News Asia and New York Times.

As part of the Victory Day events, Xi is set to be the guest of honor amid rising concerns regarding foreign military presence at the celebrations. While Kyiv condemned the participation of foreign troops, including a contingent of 102 Chinese soldiers, Xi reiterated China’s narrative of neutrality—with Beijing increasing its role as Moscow’s primary economic partner following Western sanctions. This partnership has bolstered Russia's access to energy markets, with China being its largest buyer, thereby supporting Moscow’s economy during the ongoing conflict, as highlighted by sources including TRT Global and Channel News Asia.

The ongoing collaboration has raised alarms in the West, where officials view the strengthening Moscow-Beijing axis as a challenge to established international norms post-World War II. Xi's remarks during this visit reflect deepening mutual support, as he declared China would "shoulder responsibilities of world powers" alongside Russia, and both leaders intend to counteract what they termed "neo-Nazism" and protect their respective historical narratives, as noted in reports from Al Jazeera and New York Times.