In a striking joint message issued during Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's high-level visit to the Chinese President, Russia and China have directly challenged Western policy. The joint statement demands that the US halt its military aggression, asserting that Gulf nations understand Iran would not attack without provocation. The message further clarifies that Iran possesses no nuclear weapons and has no plans to develop them. Concurrently, the Moscow-Beijing partnership is described as "armored," a bond set to be reaffirmed during President Putin's upcoming visit to Beijing, scheduled by June 2026.
An unshakable relationship against any storm
Following his discussions with the Chinese President, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov presented shared conclusions on the bilateral alliance. "I fully agree with the characterization of our relationship as unshakable against any storm," Lavrov stated. This diplomatic alignment serves as a cornerstone for both nations as they navigate increasing global volatility.
Putin to visit Beijing by June 2026
President Putin is expected to visit China in the first half of this year, specifically by June 2026, with the most likely dates being June 14–15. Thanks to the direct interaction between the two leaders, relations between Moscow and Beijing demonstrate high resilience to global economic and geopolitical shocks. However, Lavrov warned that global contradictions are increasingly taking on a dangerous military dimension.
The Persian Gulf as a crisis node
The Persian Gulf has emerged as a critical "node of crisis" that will not be easily untangled. Lavrov emphasized that Middle Eastern countries recognize that Iran would not have targeted US assets on their soil unless it had been attacked first. Russia and China both agree that Palestine, Gaza, and the West Bank must not remain in the shadows or be downgraded in global importance. Both powers seek to avoid dependence on "aggressive adventures" like those currently unfolding in the Middle East.
US urged to cease aggression
Within the context of the current energy crisis, Russia stands ready to fill the resource gap for China and other interested nations. Lavrov expressed hope that the United States will not persist in its Middle East aggression, which he claims harms even its own allies. Moscow suggests that Washington and Tehran must prioritize continued diplomatic negotiations.
Iran’s right to enrich uranium
Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed that Russia continues to build relations with Iran in full compliance with international law. Moscow recognizes Iran's right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes and stands ready to assist in resolving technical issues. The IAEA has never recorded evidence suggesting that Iran’s enriched material is being diverted for military use, according to the Russian diplomat.
US accused of promoting EU militarization
Regarding the conflict in Ukraine, Lavrov stated that Russia remains open to peace negotiations, though he claimed agreements reached in Alaska are being blocked by the European elite. He accused the US of promoting the militarization of the EU to deflect responsibility for its actions in Ukraine. The ultimate goal, he argued, is to empower Europe to contain Russia so that Washington can focus its resources on China.
"They do not hide it. To this end, they are trying to stimulate not just discussions, but practical actions for the creation of such a military anti-Russian bloc with the participation of Ukraine," Lavrov noted.
A new military bloc with Ukraine in a leading role
According to the alleged American plan, a new military bloc is being formed where Ukraine would hold a leading membership role. Lavrov insisted that all nations must comply with the UN Charter, which he accused the West of consistently violating. He further claimed there are attempts to create a "security zone" to confront Russia from Serbia. Meanwhile, French President Macron is said to be enthusiastic about creating a "stabilization group" in Ukraine. Russia warns that the EU militarization is proceeding too rapidly and violently.
Stance on Cuba
Russia expressed hope that the United States would not return to an era of "colonial wars." Regarding recent statements by Donald Trump concerning Cuba, Lavrov was cautious: "I will not even speculate on the consequences now... we have heard many statements from Washington that do not always take tangible form." Russia reaffirmed its firm support for the sovereignty and independence of its "Cuban friends" and urged the US government to engage in dialogue with authorities it currently opposes. Russia will continue providing political and economic support to Havana.
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