Moscow, Russia — Chinese President Xi Jinping attended Russia’s Victory Day Parade this week, an event commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany. The display of military strength was intended to reinforce the growing ties between Moscow and Beijing as they navigate a complex geopolitical landscape characterized by increasing tension with the West.

Xi’s visit comes at a time when Russia is under strict economic sanctions due to its invasion of Ukraine. His presence at the event and his remarks underscored the deepening partnership between China and Russia against perceived Western dominance. Xi stated that Beijing supports Moscow in resisting “hegemonic bullying,” a thinly veiled reference to U.S. actions that have included tariffs and sanctions against Russia.

“Mutual trust between our nations has reached new heights, with our pragmatic cooperation forming an unshakeable bond,” Xi asserted during his visit. Analysts believe the significance of Xi’s attendance is heightened given that he is one of the few world leaders, alongside Brazil’s President Lula da Silva, to mark the occasion, potentially representing a shift in global alliances.

Björn Alexander Düben, a specialist in Russia-China relations, noted that the personal rapport between Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin was evident during the parade. He remarked on how Xi has dedicated considerable time to personal interactions with Putin compared to other international leaders, reflecting a unique strategic partnership.

As Western sanctions squeeze Russia’s economy, the Kremlin is increasingly relying on Beijing for energy supplies and raw materials. Bilateral trade reached a remarkable $244 billion last year, with Russian exports to China spiking since the onset of the war in Ukraine. Russia’s sales to China surged by 63%, and Chinese imports have bolstered Moscow’s economy, tightening the bond between the two nations.

Despite the challenges posed by ongoing sanctions, Sino-Russian relations have strengthened. While Beijing has officially remained neutral in the conflict, it has seized opportunities to purchase Russian oil and gas at reduced prices, becoming Russia’s main source of crude oil imports.

The military cooperation between China and Russia is also expanding, marked by increased joint exercises and the sharing of advanced defense technologies. Analysts suggest that, while Russia has shown surprising resilience amidst Western pressures, its reliance on China has become paramount for sustaining military efforts in Ukraine.

China not only provides energy support but has also been a crucial supplier of manufactured goods and technologies that Russia can no longer obtain from the West. As Alicja Bachulska from the European Council on Foreign Relations highlighted, Russia’s isolation necessitates its partnership with China to maintain its war efforts.

The dynamic appears increasingly lopsided, as Moscow finds itself in a position of needing to accommodate Chinese preferences. This shift demonstrates Russia’s diminishing leverage within the partnership, leading to a scenario where it must align closely with Beijing’s interests.

A key focus of discussions during Xi’s visit involved the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, a proposed project intended to transport Russian natural gas to China. While negotiations are reportedly ongoing, the specifics of the pipeline’s route remain unsettled, highlighting China’s significant negotiating power in the relationship.

Though the proposed gas pipeline signifies collaboration, the broader context places China in a dominant position, raising concerns about Russia’s long-term autonomy in global affairs. Experts caution that this dependence may evolve into a more subordinate role for Moscow, thereby aligning with China’s broader strategic ambitions.