by DMITRY SIDOROV
MOSCOW – RUSSIAN President Vladimir Putin has updated Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on his recent discussions with US special envoy Steve Witkoff concerning the Ukraine conflict, in what could pave the way for a long-anticipated US–Russia summit.
According to Chinese state media, the two BRICS leaders spoke by phone on Thursday, exchanging views on bilateral relations, global security challenges, and the Ukraine crisis. Putin reportedly expressed appreciation for China’s “constructive role” in seeking a peaceful settlement, emphasizing Moscow’s commitment to close coordination with Beijing.
Xi welcomed renewed communication between Moscow and Washington, voicing support for improved US–Russia ties and stressing the importance of a durable political resolution to the conflict. “There are no simple solutions to complex issues,” Xi was quoted as saying, adding that China will continue promoting dialogue to ease regional tensions.
Both leaders reaffirmed the strength of their strategic partnership, with Xi’s office noting their “high level of political trust and strategic interaction” and pledging to further advance bilateral cooperation.
The Kremlin confirmed the call and said preparations are underway for Putin’s planned visit to China later this year. Details of Putin’s three-hour meeting with Witkoff earlier in the week remain undisclosed. However, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov described the talks as a productive “exchange of signals” on Ukraine and wider Russia–US relations.
The White House also characterized the meeting positively, while US President Donald Trump said “great progress” had been achieved, without offering specifics.
Witkoff’s Moscow visit has fueled speculation that a Putin–Trump summit could take place as early as next week, with the United Arab Emirates floated as a possible venue. Russia maintains that any settlement must address its security concerns, calling for Ukrainian neutrality and demilitarization.
– CAJ News
