Despite efforts by Western nations to isolate Vladimir Putin, his recent hosting of major international summits demonstrates that Russia remains far from isolated. In October 2024, Putin received global leaders at the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing, where he was prominently positioned alongside China’s President Xi Jinping. This gathering highlighted the enduring political ties between Russia and China, even as Russia faces international sanctions due to its invasion of Ukraine.
China’s backing is crucial for Russia, and Xi’s willingness to host Putin, despite the ongoing conflict, shows that the two nations continue to cooperate strategically. Although China is increasingly asserting its leverage, especially in energy negotiations like the Power of Siberia-2 pipeline, Putin’s participation in such forums underscores his ability to maintain alliances beyond the West.
Moreover, Putin has garnered support from nations like India and Vietnam, which have bolstered ties with Russia, particularly in energy and trade, despite pressures from the West. This further highlights the limitations of Western efforts to isolate Russia on the world stage.
