Putin welcomes China’s Xi to Kremlin amid Ukraine fighting

Putin congratulated Xi on his re-election and voiced hope for building even stronger ties. He welcomed China’s proposals for a political settlement in Ukraine and noted Russia is open for talks. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that over dinner, Putin will likely offer Xi a “detailed explanation” of Moscow’s actions in Ukraine. For Putin, Xi’s presence is a prestigious, diplomatic triumph amid Western efforts to isolate Russia over Ukraine. The Kremlin has welcomed China’s peace plan and said Putin and Xi would discuss it.