The recent photos of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping embracing have caused a stir on the international stage, leading to scrutiny of the roles Beijing and New Delhi may have played in supporting Putin’s actions in Ukraine. This personal bond between leaders of two top US adversaries has raised concerns in Washington, especially as China appears to be backing Moscow despite Western sanctions over Ukraine.
Despite tensions, Xi Jinping continues to show support for Putin, highlighting China’s strategic importance for Russia amid its isolation. Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Moscow signals a departure from traditional diplomatic norms, as India navigates its relationships with both the US and Russia.
As Moscow’s reliance on Beijing grows, Putin’s interactions with other allies like North Korea and Vietnam indicate a balancing act he must perform. Modi’s visit to Moscow underscores India’s reluctance to take sides in the US-China-Russia triangle, challenging pressure from the White House and signaling a complex geopolitical landscape.