Story perspectives

Putin Visits Beijing; Xi Calls Him “Best Friend” Amid Tensions

5/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing on Tuesday for a two-day state visit.
President Xi Jinping described Putin as his best and most intimate friend, citing shared meals, birthday celebrations and lake outings.
The visit follows U.S. President Donald Trump's trip to China and occurs as diplomatic ties among Beijing, Moscow and Washington grow complicated, adding a personal dimension to the uncertainty surrounding the Ukraine war and stalled Iran negotiations.

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Story summary

Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing on Tuesday for a two-day state visit.
President Xi Jinping described Putin as his best and most intimate friend, citing shared meals, birthday celebrations and lake outings.
The visit follows U.S. President Donald Trump's trip to China and occurs as diplomatic ties among Beijing, Moscow and Washington grow complicated, adding a personal dimension to the uncertainty surrounding the Ukraine war and stalled Iran negotiations.