Putin’s goal is to secure Beijing’s backing for the continuation of his war against Ukraine. Furthermore, the Russian president has offered the U.S. government to halt Iran’s military support; in return, the U.S. should cease its aid to Ukraine. The two conflicts are thus interconnected, a fact that NATO should also take more seriously into account.
At the same time, Putin’s visit demonstrates the close partnership with China as well as the shared geopolitical orientation of both states. Nevertheless, Russia has now become Beijing’s junior partner, particularly with regard to the economy.
Above all, the Chinese leadership’s public emphasis on the Taiwan issue and the reluctance regarding U.S. arms deliveries are indications of a possible shift in the U.S. government’s thinking and greater uncertainty regarding the United States’ military alliances.