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China's Xi hosts Putin after Trump visit, jabs US

May 20, 2026

Summary

Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin days after meeting with President Trump, deepening ties with Russia while making a veiled jab at the United States and calling for a halt to Middle East fighting.

How coverage differs

  • Left: China strengthens Russia ties, subtly challenging US global influence Left-leaning outlets emphasize China's strategic move to deepen ties with Russia, highlighting President Xi's red-carpet welcome for Vladimir Putin just days after hosting President Trump. They also point out Xi's veiled jab at the United States, underscoring a deliberate geopolitical balancing act.
  • Center: Xi asserts global power, deepening Russian ties after US visit Center outlets report on Chinese President Xi Jinping hosting Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing, noting the meeting occurred days after Xi met with President Trump. They highlight discussions on high-level ties, growing energy trade, and Putin's efforts to seek a boost from Xi amid the war.

Coverage by lane

Left

  • Days After Hosting Trump, Xi Deepens Ties With Putin
  • China’s Xi gives Putin a red-carpet welcome – and makes a veiled jab at the US - CNN

Center

  • Taiwan was front and center during Trump's China trip — but absent from Xi’s meeting with Putin
  • Xi basks in spotlight as he hosts Putin days after Trump
  • Putin and Xi hail their high-level ties and growing energy trade as they meet in Beijing - AP News
  • Putin Seeks a Boost From Xi in Beijing as War Effort Falters

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