Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping. Source : Kremlin.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has been labelled as “crazy” by Chinese officials as they distance Beijing from the Kremlin.
Speaking to the UK’s Financial Times, several officials in the Chinese Communist Party, who have chosen to remain anonymous, expressed concern about President Putin’s mental state.
“Putin is crazy”. One official said.
“The invasion decision was made by a very small group of people.
“China shouldn’t simply follow Russia.” They said.
The Russia-Ukraine war is reaching its one year anniversary, and China’s sentiments towards Russia seemed to have soured.
According to reports, the CCP allegedly do not think Russia will prevail in the war, expecting them to fail and become isolated from the rest of the world as a “minor power” instead of the large presence they have now.
The Chinese officials also told the Financial Times that Moscow did not notify Beijing of the move on Ukraine before it occurred.
On a public front, China has continued to back Russia in their efforts and in an ongoing partnership.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said in a press conference that China and Russia were committed to forging better relationships with one another.
“President Xi Jinping and President Putin have maintained close communication over China-Russia relations and major international and regional issues, and provided strategic guidance for the strategic partnership of coordination.” Ms Mao said.
“In the new year, the two sides will strengthen exchanges at all levels and continue to advance the growth of bilateral relations.” She said.
President Putin invited President Jinping to visit Moscow this year, however no public announcement has been made about whether President Jinping will take him up on the offer.
