Putin’s Symbolic Triumph in China Overshadowed by Lack of Deals and Reliance on Xi
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent visit to China has been portrayed as a symbolic triumph by Russian state media, highlighting his global prestige and respect in the face of attempts to isolate him from the West. However, experts suggest that the coverage was a strategic move to rally public support for Putin, as his reliance on Chinese President Xi Jinping becomes increasingly apparent.
Despite the fanfare surrounding Putin’s visit, it seems that he returns from Beijing without the major energy and agriculture deals he had hoped for. This is a significant blow, as these deals were seen as crucial to Russia’s economic growth and stability. It appears that Putin’s status as a world-class leader was the main focus of the coverage, aimed at reminding Russians of his leadership qualities and international standing.
The Kremlin official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, revealed that TV channels were instructed to portray Putin’s trip in a positive light, emphasizing his status as a global leader. The Russian president went to great lengths to ensure media attention, bringing more than two dozen journalists from various outlets to China. These journalists eagerly reported on Putin’s every move, highlighting his presence in the international spotlight.
Yevgeny Roshchin, a researcher at Princeton University, observed that state media journalists mocked the idea of Putin’s isolation due to the International Criminal Court’s indictment on war crimes charges and his involvement in the conflict in Ukraine. They emphasized Xi’s invitation for Putin to be the first to enter a welcome banquet and the red carpet reception, suggesting a great display of respect towards the Russian leader. State television broadcasts even showed countless heads of state listening to Putin’s speech.
However, the lack of substantial agreements and economic deals raises questions about Putin’s dependence on Xi and the long-term sustainability of Russia’s partnership with China. While Putin may enjoy symbolic triumphs and high-status treatment, it is essential to evaluate the tangible outcomes of his visits and the true extent of Russia’s influence.
In conclusion, Putin’s recent visit to China, hailed as a symbolic triumph by Russian state media, masks the absence of significant deals and highlights his growing reliance on Chinese President Xi Jinping. While the coverage aimed to rally support for Putin, it is crucial to consider the concrete outcomes and the sustainability of Russia’s partnership with China in the long run.
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Keywords: Putin’s visit to China, symbolic triumph, lack of deals, growing reliance on Xi, Russian state media, global prestige, isolation, energy and agriculture deals, rally Russian public support, strategic move, international standing, Kremlin official, media coverage, journalists, Xi’s invitation, red carpet reception, Putin’s speech, partnership with China.
