Nukes and bonds: How Putin and Xi are building a new nexus against the West

In a significant move, Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping have showcased their growing partnership by announcing that Russia's major state-owned companies, Rosatom and Gazprom, will issue yuan-denominated 'panda' bonds in China. This development follows their recent appearance together at a military parade in Beijing, signaling a strategic shift as Russia seeks to strengthen its financial ties with China amidst ongoing tensions with the West. This collaboration highlights the evolving geopolitical landscape and the potential for new economic alliances.