DThe West’s reaction to his partial mobilization did not surprise Putin. But a rhetorical withdrawal from Beijing is likely to be painful for him. The fact that China’s foreign ministry spokesman called not only for a ceasefire, but also for a swift solution that takes into account “legitimate security concerns of all parties” shows that China is losing patience with Putin.
Even at his last meeting with Xi Jinping, it was no longer possible to ignore the open differences in the Russia-China alliance as a result of a war that is getting longer and more consequential. India’s prime minister has also told Putin publicly that he believes the war was a mistake.
Depends on China and India
Setbacks on the diplomatic front are easier to manage for Putin than on the military front in Ukraine. Nonetheless, they will not be taken lightly in the Kremlin. When the EU’s oil embargo takes full effect next year, China and India will be paramount to the Russian economy. Russia is also dependent on both countries in the long term, as the West will not be a business partner for now.
War will not be decided in Beijing or Delhi, but developments suggest that Putin is missing something Ukraine can rely on, despite several discussions in recent months: a reliable ally.
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