China and Russia play peacemakers, deepen ties in Moscow

In Moscow, the leaders of China and Russia posed as peace-brokers, playing up China’s plan for peace in Ukraine. The plan calls for a ceasefire and talks, but does not include any calls for Russia to withdraw from occupied territory. The plan has been criticized by the West, with Ukraine adding that a ceasefire is not in its interest. In addition to overtures for peace, Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin emphasized their deepening relationship. At the start of Tuesday’s state dinner, the two leaders raised a toast and Putin proclaimed: “Russia-Chinese relations are at the highest point ever.” Xi also touted their close economic ties. Since the invasion, China has been buying Russian energy — softening the impact of Western sanctions. Putin says Russia is ready to “increase uninterrupted oil supplies” to China and will support Chinese business “in replacing Western enterprises that left Russia.” CNN’s Kristie Lu Stout reports.