“When China’s top leader, Xi Jinping, hosts President Vladimir Putin of Russia in China this week, it will be more than two years since the two autocratic leaders declared a ‘no limits’ partnership to push back against what they consider American bullying and interference,” the New York Times reports.
“Growing challenges from the West have tested the limits of that partnership.”
“Mr. Xi is walking a narrowing tightrope, coming under increasing diplomatic and economic pressure to curtail Chinese support for Russia and its war in Ukraine. A tighter embrace of Mr. Putin now could further alienate Europe, a key trading partner, as Beijing seeks to improve its image in the West, and retain access for Chinese exports to help revitalize its sluggish economy.”