Tue Jan 21 21:14:48 UTC 2025: ## Putin and Xi Discuss US Relations in Post-Inauguration Video Call
**Moscow, Russia** – Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a video call lasting over 90 minutes on Tuesday, a day after Donald Trump’s inauguration, to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and their prospective interactions with the new US administration. The Kremlin announced that the two leaders explored ways to boost trade, particularly focusing on energy cooperation, with China being Russia’s largest energy consumer.
Kremlin foreign policy advisor Yuri Ushakov stated that both Putin and Xi expressed a willingness to build mutually beneficial relations with the US, contingent on the Trump administration reciprocating. Ushakov also highlighted Russia’s readiness for dialogue with the new administration regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing Putin’s desire for a long-term peace, not just a temporary ceasefire. While no specific plans for contact with Trump were revealed, Ushakov confirmed Russia’s continued support for the “one China” principle regarding Taiwan.
The call, planned prior to Trump’s inauguration, comes amidst a backdrop of shifting geopolitical dynamics. While Russia and China declared a “no-limits” partnership last year, Trump has indicated a willingness to engage with both countries on key issues. He has expressed a desire to be tough on China while simultaneously urging Putin to negotiate an end to the Ukraine conflict, suggesting it harms Russia’s interests. Xi has similarly called for talks to resolve the Ukrainian conflict, blaming the US for prolonging the war through arms supplies to Ukraine. The conversation between Putin and Xi underscores the complex interplay between the three nations and the anticipation surrounding the Trump administration’s foreign policy approach.
First Piper 