Story perspectives

Reuters Pulls Putin-Xi Video Amid Media Control Concerns

9/7/2025

Center

Putin and Xi Censorship

Reuters removed a video of Putin and Xi discussing longevity after China’s state TV revoked permission.
The footage, from a WWII military parade, had reached over 1,000 global media clients before its withdrawal.
CCTV accused Reuters of misrepresenting the exchange but did not provide details.
Reuters maintained its commitment to journalistic standards despite the criticism.
This incident highlights concerns about media control and the China-Russia relationship.

Left

Putin and Xi's Longevity Talks

A hot mic recorded Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussing organ transplants and longevity during a Beijing military parade.
The video was widely circulated until Reuters removed it after Chinese state media retracted permission.
Putin expressed hope that biotechnology could enable immortality through organ transplants.
Xi concurred, suggesting people might live to 150 by the century's end.
Their conversation raises questions about their power dynamics and succession strategies.

History

Historical Context

The Sino-Soviet Treaty of Friendship in 1950 established a strong alliance between China and the Soviet Union, fostering military and economic cooperation. This partnership, highlighted by joint events like the WWII military parade, reflects historical ties that continue to influence their diplomatic relations today, as seen in recent media control incidents reminiscent of Cold War propaganda tactics.

1 of 3

Putin and Xi Censorship

Reuters removed a video of Putin and Xi discussing longevity after China’s state TV revoked permission.
The footage, from a WWII military parade, had reached over 1,000 global media clients before its withdrawal.
CCTV accused Reuters of misrepresenting the exchange but did not provide details.
Reuters maintained its commitment to journalistic standards despite the criticism.
This incident highlights concerns about media control and the China-Russia relationship.

1 / 3