China and Russia declared a “no limits” strategic partnership, days before Putin sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine in February 2022. Xi has met Putin over 40 times in the past decade and Putin in recent months described China as an “ally”.

It was the second call both leaders have held this year, after they discussed how to build ties with US President Donald Trump, along with prospects for a peace deal to end the war in Ukraine, in January, Reuters reported.

Trump is pushing for a quick deal to end the war in Ukraine, alarming Washington’s European allies by leaving them and Ukraine out of initial talks with Russia and blaming Ukraine for the war.