In a rare sit-down with CMG's Wang Guan ahead of his China visit, Russian President Vladimir Putin opened up about deepening ties with Beijing, the future of a multipolar world, and the West's role in global conflicts. Here's the tea.
Russia & China: “A Model of Mutual Respect”
Putin highlighted 20+ years of “consistent growth” in Russia-China relations, praising energy collaborations and alignment between China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Russia's Eurasian Economic Union. “President Xi Jinping's vision for a shared global future isn't just poetic—it's practical,” he said, calling it a blueprint for equality among nations.
The Multipolar World Debate 
The Russian leader criticized Western-dominated systems, arguing they create “first-class and second-class countries.” He framed the BRI and upcoming Belt and Road Forum as counterweights, fostering “cooperation, not coercion.”
Ukraine & the West: Adding “Fuel to the Fire”?
Putin doubled down on his stance about the Ukraine conflict, comparing Western involvement to “pouring gasoline on a flame.” He also drew parallels to Iran, accusing the West of undermining stability through “double standards.”
With Moscow and Beijing tightening partnerships, this interview signals a growing East-led push to reshape global power dynamics. Stay tuned for updates from the Belt and Road Forum!
Reference(s):
cgtn.com