Russian President Vladimir Putin and China's Defense Minister Li Shangfu met in Moscow on Sunday, where they discussed their countries' close military cooperation. Li was sanctioned by the US in 2018 for transactions with Russia's state-controlled arms exporter Rosoboronexport when he was leading the Chinese military's Equipment Development Department.
During their meeting, Putin called Xi Jinping’s recent visit to Russia “very productive,” and said relations between Russia and China were developing well in all areas, including the military departments. "China is ready to work with Russia to strengthen strategic communication between the two militaries, strengthen multilateral coordination and cooperation, and make new contributions to safeguarding regional and global security and stability," stated a representative from the Russian government.
The two countries have continued running joint military exercises around the world since the Russian invasion while European leaders expressed hope that Xi could use his rapport with Putin to push for peace. Analysts say that these meetings show that bonds between both nations have not been affected by Ukraine's war situation.
Russian leader Vladimir Putin welcomed Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu for a four-day visit meant to “deepen” cooperation between both nations' militaries following deals signed during dictator Xi Jinping's previous visit one month ago. The increase in bilateral activities includes trade room expansion, more joint military exercises, as well as Beijing’s public interest in involving itself as a mediator within ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine situations.
Putin welcomed Li specifically towards improving “military-to-military cooperation.” During his stay within Moscow territory, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin emphasized consolidating ‘military mutual trust’ alongside executing on arrangements made during Xi’s previous trip being top priorities surrounding this interaction.
As Western officials reported potential considerations regarding Beijing supplying offensive weaponry assisting Moscow forces throughout prolonged campaigns against Ukraine adversaries; Ukrainian military commanders claim increasing evidence of encountering Chinese parts within abandoned or captured Russian hardware located on battlegrounds.
China has increasingly turned to its own economy as a means of supporting various sectors while continuing sanctions from the West remain in place. China's Foreign Minister reiterated Beijing's commitment towards "prudent and responsible" arms policies despite accusations regarding providing offensive weapons to Russia amidst ongoing conflict environments.