Moscow (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to visit Russia officially from May 7 to 10. During his visit, he will take part in the 80th-anniversary celebrations commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany, as disclosed by the Kremlin on Sunday.
Earlier last month, Putin informed Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi that Xi will be the primary guest at the May 9 events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in World War II. Other national leaders are anticipated to attend the celebrations, such as the presidents of Brazil and Serbia, along with the prime minister of Slovakia.
What will Xi and Putin discuss during the visit?
In a Telegram statement, the Kremlin announced that Xi will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the advancement of their strategic partnership and to sign several documents.
“During the talks, the main issues of further development of relations of comprehensive partnership and strategic interaction, as well as current issues on the international and regional agenda, will be discussed,”
the Kremlin stated.
What is the historical importance of May 9 in Russia?
The Soviet Union suffered the loss of 27 million lives during World War Two but managed to drive Nazi forces back to Berlin. There, Hitler took his own life, and in 1945, the red Soviet Victory Banner was hoisted over the Reichstag.
How often have Xi and Putin met since 2022?
This will be Xi’s third visit to Russia since the Kremlin deployed troops to Ukraine in February 2022. While China asserts a neutral stance in the conflict, it has supported the Kremlin’s claims that the West provoked Russia’s actions and continues to provide critical components necessary for Moscow’s weapons production.
Xi’s most recent visit to Russia occurred in September 2024 during a BRICS summit. He previously visited Russia in March 2023, and Putin returned the visit by traveling to China in October of the same year. Additionally, the leaders met again in Beijing in May 2024, marking Putin’s first foreign trip of his fifth presidential term, as well as in Kazakhstan in July.
How did Zelenskiy respond to Russia’s ceasefire idea?
On the other hand, Putin has suggested a three-day ceasefire with Ukraine coinciding with the May 9 celebration, which is one of the most significant dates in the Russian calendar.
In response to Moscow’s proposal for a three-day ceasefire, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed he was ready as long as the ceasefire lasted for 30 days. However, Putin has dismissed this idea in the short term, emphasizing his desire for a long-term resolution rather than a temporary break.
Zelenskiy stated that Ukraine, amidst the ongoing war with Russia, cannot assure the safety of any foreign dignitaries attending the traditional May 9 victory parade in Moscow.
