Moscow: Chinese President Xi Jinping will travel to Russia from May 7 to 10 to participate in ceremonies commemorating the 80th anniversary of Russia’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II, the Kremlin announced on Sunday.

During his visit, Xi will hold bilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, focusing on the development of strategic partnerships and regional and global affairs. The Russian presidential office confirmed that several bilateral agreements are expected to be signed during the high-level meetings, which will also involve government ministers from both countries.

The visit comes at a time of increased geopolitical tension, particularly between Beijing and Washington, due to growing US trade tariffs. It also coincides with President Putin’s order for a three-day ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8 to 10, aligning with Russia’s Victory Day on May 9.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has ordered a corresponding ceasefire in Ukraine from May 9, though he has dismissed Russia’s truce as “theatrics.” Relations between Kyiv and Beijing remain strained, with Zelensky in April accusing China of supplying weapons to Russia and alleging that at least 155 Chinese nationals are fighting alongside Russian forces—claims that Beijing has strongly denied as “irresponsible.”

Although China claims neutrality in the ongoing war, Western governments argue that its strong economic and diplomatic ties with Russia have significantly benefited Moscow. Xi’s visit is seen as a further consolidation of the “no-limits partnership” the two countries declared in early 2022, shortly before Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine.

A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson reiterated on Sunday that China and Russia share historic and strategic ties, especially as the global order undergoes major shifts.