The Dynamics of China’s Diplomatic Engagements: An Analysis of Xi’s Calls with Trump and Putin
Introduction
In a significant development, Chinese President Xi Jinping held separate calls with US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin on February 4, 2026, setting the stage for a high-level China-US meeting in April and reaffirming the strength of China-Russia ties. This paper will analyze the implications of these calls, highlighting China’s strategic engagement with both the US and Russia amidst mounting pressure on Moscow over the war in Ukraine and the future of nuclear arms control.
Background
The calls between Xi and the two leaders come at a critical juncture in international relations. The war in Ukraine has led to a significant deterioration in Russia’s relations with the West, while the US-China relationship remains complex and multifaceted. The New START Treaty, a nuclear arms agreement between the US and Russia, is set to expire on February 5, 2026, with no signs of an extension, fueling fears of a renewed arms race between the world’s two largest nuclear powers.
China’s Engagement with the US
During the call with Trump, Xi emphasized the importance of steering the “great ship of China-US relations through rough waters and moving it forward steadily” to accomplish bigger and better things (Xinhua, 2026). The two leaders discussed trade, military issues, Taiwan, the war in Ukraine, and Iran, with Trump describing the call as “all very positive” (Truth Social, 2026). China agreed to increase its purchases of US-produced soya beans, while Xi reiterated China’s stance on Taiwan, urging the US to handle arms sales to Taiwan with caution (Xinhua, 2026).
The upcoming China-US meeting in April is expected to be a significant event, with both sides seeking to stabilize their relationship and address pressing issues such as trade, security, and climate change. Trump’s visit to China will be closely watched, as it will be an opportunity for the two leaders to build on their personal relationship and find common ground on key issues.
China’s Engagement with Russia
In his call with Putin, Xi called for Russia and China to work out a “grand plan” to develop ties that are on the “right trajectory” (Xinhua, 2026). Putin described the relationship as exemplary, stating that the foreign policy alliance between Russia and China remains an “important stabilising factor” amid growing global turbulence (Xinhua, 2026). The call marked the first meeting between the two leaders in 2026 and came as Russia and Ukraine are engaged in US-brokered peace talks in Abu Dhabi.
China’s relationship with Russia has been a key aspect of its foreign policy in recent years, with both countries seeking to promote global multipolarity and challenge the dominance of the US. The energy partnership between the two countries is “mutually beneficial” and “truly strategic” (Putin, 2026), with Russia emerging as a leading energy supplier to China. China has continued to trade with Russia and increase imports of Russian oil and gas, providing some relief from Western economic sanctions.
Implications and Analysis
The calls between Xi and the two leaders have significant implications for international relations. China’s engagement with both the US and Russia reflects its strategic approach to diplomacy, seeking to balance its relationships with major powers while promoting its own interests. The reaffirmation of China-Russia ties is particularly noteworthy, as it highlights the strength of their partnership and their shared commitment to promoting global multipolarity.
Professor Wang Yiwei from Beijing’s Renmin University’s Institute of International Affairs noted that China did not opportunistically increase purchases of Russian oil and gas in the wake of the Ukraine war, as major oil and gas pipeline agreements were planned and signed well before the conflict (Wang, 2026). The energy relationship between the two countries is “structurally stable” (Wang, 2026), reflecting the long-term strategic nature of their partnership.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the calls between Xi and Trump and Putin have set the stage for a significant development in China’s diplomatic engagements. China’s strategic approach to diplomacy, seeking to balance its relationships with major powers while promoting its own interests, is reflected in its engagement with both the US and Russia. The reaffirmation of China-Russia ties is particularly noteworthy, highlighting the strength of their partnership and their shared commitment to promoting global multipolarity. As the international landscape continues to evolve, China’s diplomatic efforts will be closely watched, with significant implications for global governance, security, and economic development.
References:
Truth Social. (2026, February 4). Donald Trump’s post on Truth Social.
Xinhua. (2026, February 4). Xi Jinping holds phone call with Donald Trump.
Xinhua. (2026, February 4). Xi Jinping holds phone call with Vladimir Putin.
Wang, Y. (2026, February 5). Interview with Professor Wang Yiwei, Renmin University’s Institute of International Affairs.
Putin, V. (2026, February 4). Statement during phone call with Xi Jinping.