U.S. Concerned By China's Ties With Russia, State Department Says After Putin-Xi Call

Russian President Vladimir Putin (left) and China's President Xi Jinping (file photo)

The United States is concerned by China's alignment with Russia as Moscow continues its invasion of Ukraine, the U.S. State Department said on December 30 after Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a video meeting. "Beijing claims to be neutral, but its behavior makes clear it is still investing in close ties to Russia," a State Department spokesperson said, adding that Washington was "monitoring Beijing's activity closely." China has refrained from condemning Moscow over its war against Ukraine but has so far been careful not to provide direct material support that could provoke Western sanctions. To read the original story by Reuters, click here.