Ahead of the trip, Putin said Moscow and Beijing were ready to support each other across a broad range of issues, but analysts say Russia is unlikely to secure the stronger backing it wants for its war against Ukraine. The Financial Times reported that Xi had told Trump last week that Putin may come to regret the invasion—a rare comment from Beijing, which has avoided openly condemning Moscow while expanding trade and energy ties. The Russian and Chinese leaders are expected to discuss the proposed Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline, a project long sought by Russia as it redirects energy exports away from Europe. The project has remained stalled for years, with China holding leverage over prices and volumes.