Mon Feb 24 11:03:24 UTC 2025: ## China and Russia Reaffirm Strong Friendship Amid Ukraine Conflict
**Beijing, February 24, 2025** – Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed their countries’ close friendship during a videoconference call today, according to Chinese state media. President Xi described China and Russia as “true friends who share weal and woe, support each other and achieve common development,” emphasizing their unbreakable bond.
The call, initiated by President Putin, follows the deepening military and trade ties between Moscow and Beijing since the start of the Ukraine conflict nearly three years ago. While China has maintained a stance of neutrality, it has refrained from condemning Russia’s actions, leading some NATO members to accuse Beijing of enabling the conflict.
Both leaders have repeatedly highlighted their strong personal relationship, with President Xi referring to President Putin as his “best friend.” The renewed display of solidarity underscores the enduring strategic partnership between the two nations amidst international scrutiny.
First Piper 