Russia Turns to China With Pipeline Pitch Amid Gulf Energy Uncertainty

Russia's President Vladimir Putin (L) takes part in a meeting with China's President Xi Jinping in Beijing on May 20, 2026. (Photo by Alexander KAZAKOV / POOL / AFP)

President Xi Jinping hailed China and Russia’s “unyielding” ties in talks with Vladimir Putin on Wednesday, as the pair met to underscore their alliance days after Donald Trump’s visit to the Asian superpower economy.

After the U.S. president was received with pomp last week but left without major breakthroughs, including on help with reopening the Strait of Hormuz, Putin’s visit will be scrutinized for tangible takeaways.

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by Eric Olander

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