The Limits of Xi and Putin’s ‘No-Limits’ Partnership

Ruby Osman and Dan Sleat

5 September 20255 Minute Read

Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks with Chinese President Xi Jinping during a walk at the Zhongnanhai leadership compound in Beijing, 2 September 2025.

The space between: Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks with Chinese President Xi Jinping during a walk at the Zhongnanhai leadership compound in Beijing, 2 September 2025. Image: Associated Press / Alamy Stock

Despite Russia's obvious economic dependence on China, the Chinese are not yet dictating outcomes, and Russia is not acting like a junior partner. Political, historical, and geographical factors on each side ensure that nothing about the relationship will be simple or straightforward.

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Topics

Global Security

Regions and Country Groups

Asia and the Pacific
China
Russia and Eurasia
Russia

WRITTEN BY

Ruby Osman

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Dan Sleat

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Jim McLeanMedia Relations Manager+44 (0)7917 373 069JimMc@rusi.org

The Limits of Xi and Putin’s ‘No-Limits’ Partnership

Please wait while we verify your account can view this article.

WRITTEN BY

Ruby Osman

Dan Sleat

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