13 May 2025, NIICE COmmentary 10917
Bornika Borah
The visit staged to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, came wrapped in layers of symbolism, diplomacy, and power projection. Xi Jinping's 2025 visit to Russia reportedly took place over May 7–9, 2025, aligning with Russia's Victory Day celebrations on May 9. The trip was scheduled to coincide with the 80th anniversary of Victory Day in Europe and was full of symbols, diplomacy, and demonstrations of power. It was a show not only for domestic spectators but for the world; one meant to demonstrate that the new world order is not only being talked about but constructed.
Political Signalling and Strategic Symmetry
According to sources, the high-level talks between Xi and Putin were described as "in-depth, friendly and fruitful". However, under the courteous dialogue, the visit had profound implications. Both leaders used the occasion to clarify that they do not subscribe to a world revolving around the U.S. Instead, they espoused a vision of many great countries — a world where the East is not second to the West. Their joint statement emphasized opposition to "dual containment" strategies, a veiled reference to American pressure on Moscow and Beijing. The optics were deliberate: two global powers, shoulder-to-shoulder, promoting a shared worldview.
Xi decided to continue with his visit even after having Ukrainian drone attacks in Moscow. The Guardian reported that the attacks were causing security concerns and disrupting air traffic, yet Xi's presence was resolute — a clear sign of political support for Putin. This was not diplomatic politeness but a demonstration of steadfast support in uncertainty. With more than 20 cooperation agreements signed, the pacts emphasised collaboration in the digital economy, investment protection, and biosecurity. Above all, the two leaders reiterated their commitment to bilateral trade in local currencies rather than the U.S. dollar. This economic move is not a pragmatic action only; it is a demonstration of confidence in the presence of the West-led financial order. Later, Xi struck a diplomatically careful note when he told reporters that China and Russia are "not opposed to anyone." The Times of India interpreted this as a sign of moderation. But the subtext was clear — this was a challenge to U.S. unilateralism, framed as a constructive alternative rather than a hostile bloc.
Spectacle, Military Intentions, and Symbolism
While Day One was all about strategy and optics, Day Two was all show and more coalition-building. Xi also participated in Moscow's Victory Day parade, which was full of historical symbolism. Chinese soldiers marched alongside Russian soldiers in Red Square. That was not merely a WWII recognition but an exhibition of political solidarity today under the veil of remembering history. The picture alone — soldiers marching together, flags waving — said it all: solidarity against Western pressure.
Military coordination was a central theme on Day Two. The South China Morning Post noted that military cooperation will strengthen with the two nations agreeing to enhance their strategic coordination. This includes combined exercises, intelligence sharing, and broader defence discussions — all under "peaceful development." Yet, in practice, these are measures against NATO, demonstrating preparedness rather than creating trouble. For the West, they are compounded by the Ukrainian crisis. Then, in behind-closed-doors negotiations following the parade, the two leaders addressed regional stability, evolving security, and enhanced cooperation in mutual patrolling and military exercises. It is less visible but essential in the long run. What's taking shape is a bilateral military understanding and the groundwork for sustained strategic interoperability between two of the world's foremost military powers.
Beyond the Visit: The Long Game
Xi's 2025 visit is only the latest in a series of moves consolidating a China-Russia axis that has been taking form in the past decade. From decoupling to synchronised military strategy and mutual grievance against perceived Western hegemony, the two nations are forging a new narrative. What began as a convenience transactional relationship has evolved into a strategic partnership.
Conversely, the West is polarised in politics, economics, and diplomacy. In such a situation, Beijing and Moscow show a united and choreographed face. This partnership is not a reaction to sanctions or coercion but a visionary attempt to create a new world order post-West. Whether this alliance will last the test of time is uncertain. China has global ambitions that may outpace Russian capacities in the long term. But for now, their interests align — and they're turning that alignment into action. From signing trade pacts to parading together in Red Square, the symbolism and substance of Xi's 2025 visit are unmistakable.
The message from Moscow was loud, choreographed, and clear: China and Russia are not just strategic partners; they are ideologically and economically interwoven actors in the emerging multipolar world order. And they're sending that message — together — to anyone still watching.
Bornika Borah is a Research Intern at NIICE and is currently pursuing her Master's in International Studies at Christ University, Bengaluru, India.
