Elephants, Dragons, and Bears Unite: Modi, Putin, and Xi at Shanghai Meeting

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping came together at the Shanghai Cooperation Summit (SCO) in a show of unity against Western influence. The meeting, aimed at challenging the West’s global dominance, saw the three leaders set aside their differences and embrace a spirit of cooperation.

A United Front Against Western Sanctions

With all three leaders facing backlash from the West, they found common ground in their opposition to heavy sanctions and tariffs. Modi and Putin, in particular, showcased a strong bond, with the two leaders seen holding hands and hugging throughout the day. Xi, as the host of the conference, emphasized the need for economic unity and urged the SCO members to support the multilateral trading system.

Reshaping Regional Dynamics

Despite past tensions, Modi and Xi appeared to be redefining their relationship, with Modi describing himself as a “partner” to China. The leaders discussed various issues, including the conflict in Ukraine, with Putin claiming that the West’s actions were responsible for the crisis. Xi, who has been accused of supporting Russia’s war efforts, called for increased trade and investment among SCO members.

Seeking Peace in Ukraine

Putin reiterated his desire for peace in Ukraine but laid out demands that were seen as unfavorable to Ukraine. The ongoing conflict, stemming from Russia’s invasion in 2014, has been a point of contention between Russia and the West. Despite claims of progress in talks with Trump, Putin’s approach to negotiations has been met with skepticism, with Ukraine accusing Russia of prolonging the war for territorial gains.

Conclusion

The meeting of Modi, Putin, and Xi at the SCO summit showcased a rare display of unity among leaders facing Western sanctions and criticism. As they navigate complex geopolitical challenges, the three leaders are seeking to reshape regional dynamics and promote economic cooperation. The road to peace in Ukraine remains uncertain, but their efforts to find common ground signal a potential shift in global power dynamics.