Putin Marks 25‑Year China Treaty, 'No Limits' Tie

Get the Geopolitics newsletter
Daily geopolitics — wars, elections, sanctions, the diplomatic moves that move markets. Free.
- Putin welcomed by Xi at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing and called Xi a "dear friend" during his state visit on May 19‑20, 2026.
- Xi and Putin signed a joint statement reaffirming a "no limits" partnership and marking the 25‑year anniversary of the Treaty of Good‑Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation.
- Russia and China issued a joint declaration warning that the world faces a risk of a return to the "law of the jungle" and that unilateral state actions are failing.
- Putin said Russia is ready to continue supplying energy to China and described Russia as a "reliable energy supplier" amid the Middle East crisis.
- Power of Siberia 2 pipeline talks were noted, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov saying there is a general understanding with China but details and timing remain unresolved.
- Xi urged an end to hostilities in the Middle East, calling further fighting "inadvisable" and emphasizing the urgency of a comprehensive ceasefire.
Why it matters: The reinforced "no limits" partnership gives Russia a guaranteed buyer for its oil and gas, cushioning the impact of Western sanctions, while China secures a reliable energy source and bolsters its strategic independence. The joint statements also signal coordinated opposition to Western pressure on Ukraine and the Middle East.



