Xi Jinping Compares US Hegemony to Fascist Forces Before Key Summit with Vladimir Putin

Xi Jinping recently compared the current U.S. dominance to the “arrogant fascist forces” of 80 years ago. This statement comes right before his meeting with Vladimir Putin in Moscow, coinciding with the celebrations of the Soviet Union’s World War II victory. This summit is pivotal for both leaders as they showcase their alliance against the U.S.-led global order.

In his article, Xi emphasized that just as China and the Soviet Union united against fascism decades ago, they must now confront what he sees as modern-day unilateralism and bullying. He warned that the world is once again at a critical crossroads.

Ahead of the summit, Russia highlighted that this meeting will reinforce their stance against attempts to alter the historical outcomes of World War II. They claim Europe is preparing for conflict in a manner reminiscent of past totalitarian regimes. Still, challenges loom. Beijing wants to improve its relations with Europe while managing its partnership with Russia amid ongoing U.S. tariffs.

On Victory Day, Xi is set to attend a grand parade in Moscow alongside leaders from several nations, including Brazil and Serbia. This event is shadowed by recent Ukrainian drone strikes that temporarily disrupted air traffic in the Russian capital.

While rallying against U.S. tariffs, Xi is also using this occasion to reaffirm China’s claim over Taiwan, hinting at potential military action if necessary. This dual messaging reflects China’s complex position: balancing its support for Russia while seeking stronger ties with Europe.

The economic relationship between China and Russia has surged recently, thanks in part to the war in Ukraine. Trade grew from $147 billion in 2021 to $245 billion last year. However, this momentum is slowing as prices for Russian oil and gas decline and demand from Russia for Chinese goods wanes. Li Mingjiang, a professor at Nanyang Technological University, notes that the economic ties may have reached their peak due to these factors.

China could consider large projects, like the delayed Power of Siberia-2 gas pipeline, to enhance trade with Russia. Yet, Alexander Gabuev from the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center points out that China is hesitant to make such commitments.

Interestingly, the ongoing trade war with the U.S. could nudge China closer to Russia. If the U.S. continues with high tariffs, China might choose to overlook U.S. sanctions on Russia. This perspective is echoed by Gabuev, who sees potential for Beijing to prioritize its interests over those of Washington.

Furthermore, the dynamics of the Ukraine war could lead China to reconsider its strategy. Zhu Feng, dean of the School of International Studies at Nanjing University, believes that a peace deal would allow China to ease its tensions with both Russia and the West.

While Xi’s article did not specifically mention Ukraine, he criticized past war criminals and framed China and Russia as builders of global stability. Analysts caution, however, that this stance could be seen as hypocritical, given Putin’s actions in Ukraine.

As Xi and Putin foster ties, the world watches closely, aware of the intricate balance of power shifting in international relations.



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