Kremlin Diplomacy: A Historic Meeting Amid Global Tensions

Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping's meeting in the Kremlin marks a pivotal moment amid escalating global tensions. The Russian and Chinese leaders convened on Thursday, fostering diplomatic relations at a time when Moscow is locked in a challenging conflict with Ukraine.

The two leaders walked towards each other on a grand red carpet through one of the Kremlin's most luxurious halls, greeting each other with a handshake before the playing of their national anthems. Xi, the most influential of several international leaders visiting Moscow this week, is present for the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two.

This historic meeting coincides with critical discussions about the ongoing Ukraine war, with the U.S. pressing Moscow and Kyiv for a peace agreement. China continues to support Russia economically through its role as Russia's top trading partner and its extensive purchases of Russian oil and gas, despite the challenges posed by Western sanctions.

(With inputs from agencies.)