Putin will formalize Russia's junior status under China's dominance. For a man so determined to restore Russia to the supposed pinnacle of Soviet-era power, this is an amazing record of stepping on rakes. My how the mighty have fallen.
I'm not even sure what this means:
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged to boost cooperation between Moscow and Beijing one day after Donald Trump returned as U.S. president.
The two leaders held a call Tuesday to discuss “new plans for the development of the Russian-Chinese comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation,” according to a transcript of their conversation published on the Kremlin’s website.
Addressing Putin as his “dear friend,” Xi said China and Russia should jointly support the U.N.-centered international system and defend the post-World War II global order.
“This year, I am ready, together with you, to elevate Chinese-Russian relations to a new level, to counter external uncertainties by preserving stability and resilience of Chinese-Russian relations, for the development and prosperity of both countries and for justice and equality in the world,” Xi told Putin.
China and Russia wish to support the UN-centered system? That's basically what America does, so I'd really love to see their Definitions Section for what they support.
And what does it mean for the Russia-China relationship? A closer relationship at this point can only mean institutionalizing Russia's increasingly obvious vassal status under China's domination. I mean, Russia has already blown 20 of the 30 to 40 years Russia thought it needed to balance China's power if Russia hopes to retain control of its Far East.
Perhaps the deal sounds better in the original Chinese.
Is skipping along on Xi's leash as the sick, angry man of Europe the price Russia will be forced to pay to renew (again) that expiring agreement that mutes China's claims on Russian Far East territory?
Putin is doing the opposite of restoring Russia's greatness. Will Russians get angry at that record?
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NOTE: I made the image with Bing.
