In this pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia’s President Vladimir Putin and China’s President Xi Jinping tour a photo exhibition on Russia-China ties in Beijing on May 20, 2026. (Photo by Alexander KAZAKOV / POOL / AFP via Getty Images)
Alexander Kazakov | Afp | Getty Images
Russian President Vladimir Putin departed from Beijing on Wednesday, leaving behind declarations of a lasting friendship with China, alongside a collection of bilateral agreements. However, a significant breakthrough regarding the anticipated energy pipeline was absent, indicating a shift in the dynamics of their partnership that seems to favor Beijing.
Limited progress on gas deal
The two leaders did not achieve a breakthrough on the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, which had been highlighted as a topic for in-depth discussion, amid a notable decline in Russia’s gas exports to Europe following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
After the summit, Russian Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov stated that while an understanding had been reached on key parameters of the project, several details still needed refinement, with no definitive timeline provided, based on a Google translation of reports from RIA Novosti.
Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized that energy cooperation should serve as the foundation of China-Russia relations, yet he did not mention the pipeline explicitly.
“This marks a significant setback for Russia and Putin, who suggested prior to the visit that a breakthrough was forthcoming,” commented Lyle Morris, a senior fellow on Chinese national security and foreign policy at Asia Society Policy Institute. He added that Beijing might be leveraging Russia’s reduced influence following the European Union’s decision to restrict certain gas flows from Moscow. “Putin faced embarrassment due to the failure in reaching an agreement on the pipeline,” Morris remarked.
Moscow views the natural gas initiative as crucial for transitioning its gas exports from Europe to China. In contrast, Beijing is cautious about excessive dependency on a single gas supplier. Russia has historically been one of China’s primary energy suppliers, particularly increasing oil shipments following significant disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
In September 2025, both parties signed a legally binding memorandum to expedite the construction of the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, but discussions have stalled due to disagreements over pricing, financing, and delivery timelines.
The long-delayed pipeline is expected to transport up to 50 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually from Russia to China via Mongolia, complementing the existing Power of Siberia 1 system, which currently delivers about 38 billion cubic meters of gas to China each year.
‘Unyielding’ bonds and deal-making
In spite of the stalled gas negotiations, Beijing and Moscow finalized a comprehensive package of over 40 agreements covering trade, education, technology, and nuclear security, reflecting ongoing momentum in their longstanding relationship.
Both leaders celebrated their “unyielding” ties and committed to enhancing “good neighborliness and friendly cooperation.” Xi emphasized that bilateral relations were at “their highest level in history.”
With China being Russia’s largest trading partner, it’s notable that Moscow accounts for only about 4% of China’s total trade, illustrating a skewed dynamic favoring China.
Additionally, China and Russia agreed to strengthen military trust and collaboration, which includes expanding joint military exercises, air patrols, and maritime operations.
On the Taiwan issue, Moscow reiterated its support for the “One China principle,” asserting that the island is part of China and opposing any moves for Taiwanese independence. Regarding Ukraine, China expressed its continuous support for a diplomatic resolution, while also defending Russia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In a veiled critique of Washington, both nations condemned military actions against third countries, the assassination of state leaders, and attempts to destabilize domestic political situations as serious breaches of international law. Their joint statement identified such “external destructive interference” as the primary cause of instability across Eurasia.
A delicate balancing act
Putin’s visit followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent trip, with Beijing providing a similarly grand welcome to both leaders, featuring a red carpet reception and children waving flags and holding flowers.
Xi welcomed each leader with a ceremonial display outside the Great Hall of the People in central Beijing, accompanied by a 21-gun salute that resonated across Tiananmen Square. Trump’s delegation comprised a dozen business executives, including CEOs from notable companies like Apple, Tesla, and Nvidia, while Putin’s entourage consisted mostly of deputy premiers, ministers, and heads of state-owned oil and gas firms.
“There was a nuanced approach to clearly establish a sense of balance in China’s relationships with both leaders,” Evan Medeiros, Penner Family Chair in Asian Studies at Georgetown University, remarked during an appearance on CNBC’s “The China Connection.”
The back-to-back visits highlighted Xi’s growing role in global affairs, with Medeiros noting, “Xi Jinping aims to position China as an indispensable player in international politics.” This comes amid a wave of visits from leaders of various nations, including those from Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
“This indicates China’s ambition to assert itself as a leading power, if not the foremost power in the world,” Medeiros commented.
Unlike Trump, who had only made his second visit to China, Putin has visited the country over 20 times during his lengthy tenure as president.
Key Takeaways
- Putin’s visit to Beijing highlighted the complex dynamics of Russia-China relations.
- Negotiations on the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline did not yield a breakthrough.
- Over 40 agreements were signed, focusing on various sectors amidst strained energy talks.
- China remains Russia’s largest trading partner, although trade heavily favors China.
- Military cooperation between the two nations is set to deepen, including joint exercises.
- Both countries condemned foreign military interventions during their discussions.
- Xi aims to strengthen China’s role on the global stage amid rising international visits.
FAQ
What was the outcome of Putin’s meeting with Xi Jinping?
While there were declarations of friendship and numerous agreements signed, a key energy pipeline deal was not finalized.
Why is the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline significant?
This pipeline is viewed as essential for reshaping Russia’s gas exports from Europe to China.
What sectors were addressed in the signed agreements between Russia and China?
The agreements covered various areas including trade, education, technology, and nuclear security.
How does China’s trade relationship with Russia compare?
China is Russia’s largest trading partner, but Russia only accounts for about 4% of China’s total trade.
