August 8, 2025 – Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed strong support for warming relations between Russia and the United States, calling the development “positive” for global peace and stability. The statement came during a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, as both nations prepared for a high-profile meeting between Putin and US President Donald Trump in the coming days.
China Positions Itself as a Supporter of Dialogue
During the call, Xi Jinping praised recent diplomatic progress, stating that Beijing “salutes” the efforts by Washington and Moscow to improve their ties. As reported by Le Figaro and Ici Beyrouth, China views this rapprochement as a crucial step toward a political resolution to the war in Ukraine. The Chinese Foreign Ministry also reiterated this position during a press briefing, framing the initiative as a move that aligns with China’s image as a responsible global power.
Behind the Diplomatic Push
The phone conversation between Xi and Putin took place shortly after the Kremlin confirmed it is preparing a summit between Putin and Trump. According to RTBF, the meeting could happen in the United Arab Emirates, which has offered to host the talks on neutral ground.
This diplomatic push follows an ultimatum by Donald Trump last week, demanding that Russia halt its offensive in Ukraine by August 8. In an effort to avoid fresh sanctions and reach a settlement, Trump dispatched his envoy, real estate executive Steve Witkoff, to Moscow. Witkoff met with Putin at the Kremlin on August 6, a meeting described by the Kremlin as “useful and constructive” (RTL Info).
Trump and Putin’s Strategic Goals
For Trump, the upcoming summit is seen as an opportunity to deliver on his repeated promise to end the war in Ukraine, while potentially shifting US foreign policy focus toward Asia and strategic competition with China. Reports from Le Diplomate suggest the White House sees direct dialogue with Russia as the fastest path to a resolution.
For Putin, the talks represent a chance to seek recognition of Russia’s de facto annexations while bypassing European mediators and Ukraine itself, which has called to be included in the negotiations. The Kremlin, according to the Russian Foreign Ministry, is prepared to engage directly with Washington but remains firm on securing its strategic interests.
China’s Geopolitical Advantage
Analysts cited by Asialyst note that Beijing stands to benefit from this US-Russia thaw. By presenting itself as a neutral advocate for peace, China enhances its global diplomatic profile while continuing to deepen its strategic partnership with Moscow. The move also allows Beijing to monitor and potentially influence the evolving balance between its two main rivals.
Persistent Tensions
Despite the diplomatic optimism, tensions remain high. Just before sending his envoy to Moscow, Trump ordered the deployment of two nuclear submarines in response to provocative remarks by former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev (TV5 Monde).
What’s Next
The exact date and location of the Putin-Trump summit have yet to be confirmed, but sources close to the talks say it could be announced within days. For continuing coverage of the diplomatic maneuvering, follow updates from Public Sénat and Africanews.
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