Putin Issues Video Address Ahead of China Visit, Signaling New Momentum in Strategic Partnership

Moscow. Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a special video address on the eve of his state visit to China. According to Global Times, the video address, released on May 19, 2026, focused on Russia’s bilateral relations with China, economic cooperation and the shared role of the two countries in the international landscape.

The Russian president’s visit comes at a time when U.S. President Donald Trump has recently completed his state visit to China. Analysts say Putin’s visit immediately after Trump’s trip clearly signals that Beijing continues to give priority to its strategic relationship with Moscow. The visit is expected to open possibilities for new agreements between the two countries in areas such as trade, energy cooperation, infrastructure development and regional security.

In the video address, Putin reportedly described China Russia relations as a “comprehensive strategic partnership” and stated that cooperation between the two countries contributes to stability in global politics. He also expressed enthusiasm about his upcoming meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and said he expected bilateral relations to reach a new height.

In recent years, Russia and China have significantly expanded cooperation in trade, energy, technology and military affairs. For Russia, which has been facing Western sanctions, China has become a major economic and strategic partner. Putin’s visit is expected to further strengthen that relationship.