On Friday, August 8, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in a series of phone calls with leaders from China, India, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan to discuss his recent meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff. The primary focus of these discussions was the ongoing situation in Ukraine and potential avenues for a resolution.
China's Perspective
During his call with Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed that Beijing welcomes continued dialogue between the U.S. and Russia regarding Ukraine and reiterated China's support for peaceful negotiations. According to Chinese state media, Xi cautioned that "complex issues have no simple solutions". China has maintained a close relationship with Russia, particularly since the onset of the war in Ukraine, and has become a major trading partner, especially as a buyer of Russian oil. This partnership has solidified against the backdrop of the war in Ukraine. China has refrained from openly criticizing Russia's actions and has instead emphasized the need for a political solution. China sees its future as intertwined with Russia and views the relationship as a strategic alliance against the U.S.-led global order.
India's Stance
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed on X that he had a "very good and detailed conversation" with Putin, referring to him as his "friend," regarding the "latest developments on Ukraine". Modi also noted that they reviewed the progress of bilateral ties and reaffirmed their "Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership". He also thanked Putin for sharing the updates on the Ukraine situation and reiterated India's consistent position for a peaceful resolution of the conflict. Despite increasing pressure from the U.S., India has maintained its relationship with Russia, particularly in the areas of defense and energy.
Broader Implications
Putin's briefing of these key allies underscores the importance of these relationships in the context of the Ukraine conflict and Russia's broader geopolitical strategy. The fact that Putin is sharing details of discussions with the U.S. indicates a level of trust and coordination with these nations. Both China and India have become major buyers of Russian crude oil since 2022.
U.S.-Russia Relations
The discussions come in the wake of a meeting between Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, raising hopes for a potential summit between Putin and Trump. While details of the Putin-Witkoff meeting remain undisclosed, both Moscow and Washington have expressed cautious optimism about progress in the Ukraine peace negotiations. However, the U.S. has also maintained a firm stance, with Trump giving Russia a deadline to end the war or face new sanctions and tariffs. The U.S. recently imposed an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods in response to New Delhi's continued purchases of Russian oil.
Other Engagements
In addition to China and India, Putin also spoke with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko about U.S. peace proposals and a potential Trump-Putin summit. He also contacted the leaders of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, who reportedly welcomed steps toward a political and diplomatic resolution of the war.
Looking Ahead
The flurry of diplomatic activity suggests a potential shift in the dynamics surrounding the Ukraine conflict. Whether these discussions will translate into concrete progress toward a resolution remains to be seen, but the engagement of key global players like China and India highlights the interconnectedness of the issue and the need for a multifaceted approach. Putin is also scheduled to visit India later in 2025.
