Xi Jinping set to arrive in Moscow as Putin’s ‘guest of honor’ ahead of Victory Day military parade

CNN - May 7th, 2025
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As Russian President Vladimir Putin prepares for the May 9 Victory Day military parade, Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in Moscow for a four-day state visit. Xi's attendance underscores the strengthening alliance between China and Russia at a time of shifting global alliances, notably due to US President Donald Trump’s “America First” diplomacy. The visit also includes other world leaders, with contingents from the Chinese People’s Liberation Army participating in the parade. Putin proposed a three-day ceasefire with Ukraine, which was rejected by Ukrainian President Zelensky, highlighting ongoing tensions.

Xi's visit comes amid escalating trade tensions between China and the US, pushing Beijing to bolster its ties with Moscow. Both Xi and Putin aim to project stability and challenge US unilateralism, taking advantage of the World War II commemoration to signal their alignment. The deepening economic and security ties between China and Russia are seen as a strategic response to Western pressures, with record bilateral trade despite global sanctions. Observers are keen to see if Xi will address peace in Ukraine during his visit, a move that could affect China's relations with Europe and its support for Russia in the conflict.

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RATING

7.2
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article effectively covers a significant geopolitical event, offering a detailed account of Xi Jinping's visit to Moscow and its broader implications. It excels in accuracy, with most claims supported by credible sources, although some details require further verification. The narrative is balanced but could benefit from a wider range of perspectives, particularly from European or non-aligned nations. The article is timely and relevant, addressing issues of public interest and potential impact on global power dynamics. Its clarity and readability make it accessible, though additional context on complex issues might enhance comprehension for all readers. While the story engages with potentially controversial topics, it does so responsibly, providing a comprehensive overview of the evolving international landscape.

RATING DETAILS

8
Accuracy

The story presents a largely accurate depiction of Xi Jinping's visit to Moscow, aligning with confirmed reports of his attendance at the Victory Day parade and the intended strengthening of China-Russia relations. The article accurately highlights the geopolitical implications of the visit, including the deepening trade ties and mutual support between China and Russia. However, some claims, such as the specific attendance of other leaders like Brazil’s Lula da Silva and Vietnam’s To Lam, require further verification. Additionally, the assertion about the presence of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army honor guard in the parade lacks direct confirmation. These areas, while minor, suggest a need for cautious interpretation of these specific details.

7
Balance

The article provides a reasonably balanced view of the geopolitical dynamics between China, Russia, and the United States. It includes perspectives from both Chinese and Russian sources, as well as insights from Western analysts. However, the narrative slightly leans towards emphasizing the strategic alignment against the US, which might overshadow other perspectives, such as those of European nations or non-aligned states. The piece could benefit from a more diverse range of viewpoints, particularly from countries directly affected by the China-Russia-US triangle, to enhance its balance.

8
Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear language, making it accessible to a broad audience. It effectively outlines the key points of Xi Jinping’s visit and the broader geopolitical context. The logical flow from the visit’s immediate details to its larger implications helps maintain reader engagement. However, some complex geopolitical dynamics are summarized quickly, which might require additional context for readers less familiar with the subject.

7
Source quality

The article draws on credible sources such as official statements from the Chinese and Russian governments, providing a solid foundation for its claims. It also references analysts from reputable think tanks, adding depth to the analysis. However, the reliance on unnamed 'analysts' and general statements without specific attribution weakens the source quality slightly. More direct quotes from identifiable experts or officials would bolster the article’s credibility and provide clearer attribution.

6
Transparency

The article offers a clear narrative but lacks explicit transparency regarding the sources of some of its claims, particularly those needing further verification. While it cites official statements and analysts, the methodology behind some assertions, such as the expected attendance of specific leaders and military participation details, is not fully disclosed. Greater transparency in how these claims were sourced or corroborated would enhance the article's reliability and help readers understand the basis of its assertions.

Sources

  1. http://eng.mod.gov.cn/xb/News_213114/TopStories/16384554.html
  2. https://www.brookings.edu/articles/xi-jinpings-moscow-visit-highlights-chinas-strategic-vulnerabilities/
  3. https://kyivindependent.com/chinas-xi-to-meet-with-putin-sign-bilateral-documents-during-visit-to-moscow-for-victory-day-celebrations/
  4. https://www.pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2025/05/4/7510548/
  5. http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/76838