It’s no doubt a symbolic show of support for Putin with Xi set to also attend a parade on Friday, one that commemorates the 80th anniversary of the World War II victory over Germany by Russia and its allies. The solidarity on the military front will also strike back home, with Taiwan and Vietnam in particular also watching closely as Beijing is concocting its own plans.

But perhaps there’s also another thing on the agenda here. And that is the show of camaraderie in fighting back against the US.

Xi’s visit no doubt comes at an interesting time now with US and China preparing for an early round of talks to take stock on trade later this weekend. Markets are hoping for de-escalation but China’s posturing will depend a lot on how Xi wants to play this out.

So, be watchful of comments from the Chinese president during his time in Russia as well over the next few days.