Following Chinese President Xi Jinping’s high-profile visit to Moscow for Russia’s World War II Victory Day parade, China has announced plans to expand military cooperation with Russia, signaling a bold step in their strategic partnership. This move, aimed at countering U.S. influence, has sparked global attention as both nations pledge to deepen their “no-limits” relationship amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
[](https://www.nbcnews.com/world/europe/russia-parade-world-war-ii-putin-china-xi-trade-deal-tariffs-rcna205534)
A Strategic Partnership Strengthened
During Xi Jinping’s visit to Moscow from May 7-10, 2025, he joined Russian President Vladimir Putin to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany. The lavish Victory Day parade, attended by Chinese troops and marked by a display of advanced Russian weaponry, underscored the growing alignment between Beijing and Moscow. The two leaders signed over 20 agreements, covering areas from military ties to digital economy cooperation, further solidifying their “comprehensive strategic partnership.”
[](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/putin-russia-victory-day-2025-ukraine-china-xi-jinping/)[](https://apnews.com/article/russia-victory-day-139e5c80e291e281ae11db8de1296080)[](https://edition.cnn.com/2025/05/08/china/xi-jinping-putin-china-russia-talks-moscow-intl-hnk)China’s defense ministry, in a statement on May 15, 2025, emphasized that the Chinese military is ready to “further deepen strategic mutual trust, step up strategic communication, and expand practical cooperation” with Russia. Spokesman Jiang Bin highlighted that these efforts would “enrich the content of China-Russia coordination for a new era” and contribute to “maintaining global strategic stability.”
Geopolitical Implications and Western Concerns
The strengthening of China-Russia military ties comes at a time when both nations face increasing pressure from the United States. Xi and Putin have openly criticized what they call “hegemonic bullying” by the U.S., with their joint statement accusing Washington of pursuing a policy of “dual containment” against them. This rhetoric aligns with their broader goal of challenging the U.S.-led global order and promoting a multipolar world.
[](https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/putin-greets-chinas-xi-kremlin-2025-05-08/)[](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-08/putin-and-xi-display-partnership-in-russia-to-end-us-led-order)Western nations, particularly Ukraine’s allies, have expressed concern over Beijing’s support for Moscow, especially since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. While China maintains a neutral stance, claiming to promote peace, critics argue that its economic and political backing enables Russia’s war efforts. The presence of Chinese troops at the VictoryENZA Day parade and reports of Chinese dual-use technologies aiding Russia’s military have heightened these concerns.
[](https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/05/07/russia-china-summit-victory-day/)[](https://www.cnn.com/2025/05/06/europe/china-russia-xi-putin-victory-day-hnk-intl)An Intriguing Historical Connection
An interesting historical parallel to this modern alliance is the Sino-Soviet Treaty of Friendship, Alliance, and Mutual Assistance signed in 1950. This Cold War-era pact saw China and the Soviet Union unite against Western powers, much like today’s partnership. However, the treaty collapsed by the late 1950s due to ideological differences and border disputes. The current “no-limits” partnership, declared in 2022 just before Russia’s Ukraine offensive, appears more resilient, driven by mutual economic and geopolitical interests. Could history repeat itself with tensions arising, or will this alliance reshape global power dynamics?
[](https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2025/05/07/chinas-xi-lands-in-moscow-to-beef-up-no-limits-putin-partnership-a89011)Celebrating Chinese Culture: Mapo Tofu Recipe
To honor China’s rich cultural heritage amidst this geopolitical narrative, let’s explore a beloved traditional dish: Mapo Tofu. This spicy Sichuan dish, known for its bold flavors, is a staple in Chinese cuisine and a perfect way to bring a taste of China to your kitchen.
Mapo Tofu Recipe
- Ingredients:
- 400g soft tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 200g ground pork or beef
- 2 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
- 2 tbsp doubanjiang (fermented broad bean paste)
- 1 tbsp fermented black beans, rinsed and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Instructions:
- Heat oil in a wok over medium heat. Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart.
- Add garlic, ginger, doubanjiang, and fermented black beans. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in soy sauce and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Gently add tofu cubes, stirring to coat. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, stirring gently.
- Sprinkle with ground Sichuan peppercorns and green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Mapo Tofu’s fiery flavor mirrors the intensity of current geopolitical shifts, making it a fitting culinary nod to this story.
Looking Ahead: A New World Order?
As China and Russia deepen their military and economic ties, the global balance of power is under scrutiny. Xi’s visit and the subsequent pledge for expanded cooperation signal a long-term strategy to counter Western influence. Whether this partnership will lead to a stable multipolar world or escalate tensions remains uncertain. For now, the world watches as these two powers navigate a complex geopolitical landscape.
[](https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/05/09/russia-victory-day-putin-ukraine/)Author: Planet-Today.com
Via AFP
Search SEO Tags: China-Russia, Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, Victory Day parade, geopolitical strategy, Chinese recipe