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Putin's remarks highlight pivot from West to China
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Both men share distrust of West
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Xi's reserved remarks contrast Putin's upbeat tone
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No sign from Xi of support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine
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U.S. 'concerned' by China's alignment with Russia
(Adds U.S. comment)
By Kevin Liffey
Dec 30 (Reuters) - Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday he was expecting Chinese President Xi Jinping to make a state visit early next year in what would be a public show of solidarity from Beijing as Russia's invasion of Ukraine falters.
But an official Chinese readout of a video summit between the two leaders highlighted differences in approach to their developing alliance, making no mention of a visit and stressing that Beijing, which has declined to back or condemn the invasion, would maintain its "objective and fair" stance.
Since sending troops into Ukraine in February, Russia has turned its back on Western powers that have ostracised it economically and politically and armed Ukraine, courting the rising global power of long-time rival China instead.
"We are expecting you, dear Mr. Chairman, dear friend, we are expecting you next spring on a state visit to Moscow," Putin told Xi in an effusive eight-minute introductory statement broadcast on state television.
"This will demonstrate to the whole world the strength of Russian-Chinese ties on key issues."
He also said he aimed to boost military cooperation with China - although there was no mention of this in the Chinese state broadcaster CCTV's report of the call.
Although Xi called Putin his "dear friend", his introductory statement, at around a quarter the length of Putin's, was far more pragmatic in tone.
The two men had signed a "no limits" strategic partnership in February, informed by shared distrust of the West, a few days before Russia sent its armed forces into Ukraine in what it terms a "special military operation".
The United States said after the call that it was "
concerned
" by China's alignment with Russia, and reiterated it had warned Beijing of consequences should it provide Russia with military assistance for its war against Ukraine or assistance in evading Western sanctions.
"We are monitoring Beijing's activity closely," a State Department spokesperson said. "Beijing claims to be neutral, but its behaviour makes clear it is still investing in close ties to Russia."
U.S. officials have consistently said they have yet to see Beijing provide material support to Russia for the war, a move that could provoke sanctions against China.