Moscow and its allies are making efforts to demonstrate their resistance to pressure from the West

In a significant move, Russian President Vladimir Putin is embarking on a four-day trip to China, marking his first extended visit to a single country in over 20 years. This visit, coming barely two weeks after Putin's meeting with Donald Trump in Alaska, is a pointed show of solidarity amidst the ongoing sanctions and political tensions.

The diplomatic meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, following Trump's tariffs on India for buying Russian oil, can be seen as a symbolic blow to Washington's direction. Putin's visit to China, however, suggests a different narrative - one of unity and resilience in the face of adversity.

The symbolism of Putin's visit is not lost on observers. Russia and China have fought together in the past and, according to this visit, will remain united against future threats. Putin's bilateral talks with Xi Jinping on Tuesday, following the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation security summit, further underscore this unity.

The visit also serves as a conscious diplomatic symbol of solidarity and military partnership among Russia, China, and other countries, including Belarus, India, Iran, Pakistan, and several Central Asian states. Putin will be the guest of honor at a military parade on Wednesday marking the 80th anniversary of Japan's formal surrender in the Second World War, further emphasising this solidarity.

Trade volumes between Russia and China have dipped by 8% since January, a concerning sign for Moscow as the economy could be on the brink of recession. However, Putin is seeking a commitment from Russia's economic partners that they won't be going anywhere should the pressure increase. He is also hoping to arrest the slump and expand trade into new areas during his visit to China.

The American president has tried to weaken the Russia-China relationship with threats of tariffs and secondary sanctions over continued purchasing of Russian oil. However, Putin's program in China appears designed to emphasise the strength of his relationship with Xi Jinping. Renewed warnings of "massive" sanctions on Moscow have been made, but Putin's visit to China seems intended to illustrate the strong relationship between the two leaders.

US and Russian officials have discussed energy deals during recent negotiations, with the hope of incentivizing the Kremlin to agree a peace deal and dilute its bond with China. However, Putin's visit to China suggests a different strategy - one of strengthening diplomatic relations as a counterbalance to Western alliances like NATO.

In conclusion, Putin's visit to China is more than just a diplomatic trip. It is a symbolic response to Western pressure, a show of unity with China, and a strategic move to strengthen Russia's position on the global stage.

Moscow and its allies are making efforts to demonstrate their resistance to pressure from the West