China's Xi Jinping urges end to Middle East conflict in meeting with Russia's Vladimir Putin

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin met on 20 May 2026 at Beijing's Great Hall of the People. During the talks Xi called for an immediate halt to all military actions in West Asia, describing the situation as having reached a "serious turning point." He warned that continued fighting would disrupt energy supplies, industrial and supply chains, and the global trade system, and urged that dialogue replace combat.

Xi highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, noting that China imports about 90 % of its oil from Iran despite U.S. sanctions and that both China and Russia have close ties with Tehran. He suggested that China and Russia could pressure for the strait’s reopening, which is currently blocked by the United States and Iran. The meeting also included the signing of up to 40 cooperation agreements and a reaffirmation of the long‑standing China‑Russia partnership.

While not naming U.S. President Donald Trump, Xi criticized unilateral and hegemonic policies, urging a more balanced global governance. The discussion underscored the broader impact of Middle East tensions on energy markets and international stability.