Staff Reports
The White House national security communications advisor, John Kirby, gave his reaction on Friday to a hug shared between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Kirby offered a cool response, claiming that it was “no surprise” to him that the two leaders are close and said, “That’s nice for them.”
Hug between Putin and Xi comes as ‘no surprise’ to John Kirby pic.twitter.com/q394cCUuRq
— GENERAL OF THE U.S. ARMY TOM S. GATES ★ ????? (@GENTomSGates83) May 19, 2024
Kirby explained that the common bond between Putin and Xi is their desire to challenge the international rules-based order and the network of alliances and partnerships enjoyed by the United States. He suggested that they are seeking ways to bolster each other’s national security interests.
The display of affection between Xi and Putin occurred after President Joe Biden referred to Russia and China as economically stalling and xenophobic. Biden stated that they do not want immigrants and emphasized the strength that immigrants bring to the United States.
Russia has been engaged in its invasion of Ukraine for over two years, resulting in substantial losses for Russian forces. Putin asserted during an interview with Tucker Carlson that his country still has a chance to defeat Ukraine if the United States stops interfering.
Meanwhile, China has escalated its aggression against Hong Kong and issued bounties for several activists. Xi has also long anticipated the eventual reunification of Taiwan with mainland China.
