"Putin and Xi's Joint Show of Defiance: Solidarity Amidst Middle East Crisis"

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed solidarity with China at the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing, praising Chinese leader Xi Jinping's vision for a fairer, multi-polar world. The event marked the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to boost connectivity and trade through Chinese infrastructure projects. As the Middle East crisis escalates, China and Russia have called for a ceasefire and refrained from explicitly condemning Hamas, in contrast to the US and European leaders' support for Israel. Xi Jinping emphasized China's pursuit of global development and rejected ideological confrontation and geopolitical rivalry. The gathering showcased China's efforts to project itself as an alternative leader to the US, despite facing challenges at home and criticism of its infrastructure projects.