The world’s energy markets are undergoing a fundamental shift as Russia’s energy strategy turns decisively eastward. Russian President Vladimir Putin met with his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, in Beijing, where they finalized a landmark deal for the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline. This agreement, which will provide China with up to 50 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually for three decades, is a clear signal of Russia’s pivot away from Europe and towards Asia.
The deal is a cornerstone of a broader strategic alliance that Putin described as being at an “unprecedentedly high level.” Their talks, focused on strategic coordination, were held on the eve of a massive Victory Day military parade, an event that has attracted dozens of world leaders. The guest list is a clear signal of a growing bloc of nations that are seeking to create alternatives to Western-led global institutions.
The parade, which commemorates the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Japan in World War II, is a powerful symbol of this new alliance. It is set to feature a grand display of military might, including marching formations, tanks, and fighter jets. The diverse guest list, according to analysts, is a clear signal of a collective desire to challenge the unipolar world. It is a show of strength and unity, a direct message to the West about a new geopolitical reality.
Adding to the diplomatic intrigue, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un made a significant arrival by armored train, accompanied by his daughter, Kim Ju-ae, in her first international appearance. Her presence has sparked widespread speculation about her future role and the deepening ties between Pyongyang, Beijing, and Moscow. A Kremlin aide’s suggestion that a meeting between Putin and Kim could be on the horizon only adds to the diplomatic buzz, hinting at a potential trilateral alliance.
As the parade preparations continue, a broader regional strategy is also taking shape. Chinese President Xi Jinping underscored the importance of closer cooperation between China, Russia, and Mongolia, signaling a unified vision for regional stability and economic growth. The events unfolding in Beijing are not isolated incidents but rather part of a larger, coordinated effort to re-draw the global map and forge a new geopolitical reality.