Xi Jinping arrives in Russia for first visit since war broke out in Ukraine

Chinese President Xi Jinping has landed in Moscow for meetings with Vladimir Putin, Russian state media TASS reported on Monday.

It is the first time that China’s leader has visited his neighbor and close strategic partner since the start of the war in Ukraine.

During the visit, Xi and Putin will discuss “strategic cooperation” between the two countries, according to the Kremlin.

“During the negotiations, topical issues of further development of comprehensive partnership relations and strategic cooperation between Russia and China will be discussed,” it said in a statement.

“An exchange of views is also planned in the context of deepening Russian-Chinese cooperation in the international arena,” the Kremlin added. “Several important bilateral documents will be signed.”

The visit comes as China tries to present itself as a neutral peace broker in Ukraine, but the effort has been met with skepticism in western capitals due to Beijing’s growing partnership with Moscow.

China has refused to condemn Russia’s attack on Ukraine – or referred to it as an “invasion”, instead blaming NATO’s advance for provoking the conflict.

It also provided diplomatic support to Moscow, while expanding commercial and military ties with its northern neighbor.

Western officials have also raised concerns that China may be considering providing Russia with lethal military assistance, a charge Beijing has denied.