Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to make a formal state visit to China, reinforcing what has become one of the most consequential geopolitical partnerships of the current decade. Simultaneously, Russian state media claims its forces destroyed more than 3,000 Ukrainian drones in a single week — a figure that, if accurate, signals a significant intensification in drone warfare intensity. Together, these developments point to a war showing no signs of de-escalation while Russia's international alignment shifts further eastward.
A deepening China-Russia partnership complicates the West's sanctions strategy and raises long-term risks for European energy markets, defense spending trajectories, and global supply chains for critical materials. Defense and energy stocks in Europe may see continued tailwinds, while assets sensitive to geopolitical stability — including European equities broadly — face persistent headwinds. Commodity markets, particularly oil and metals with Russian exposure, remain vulnerable to headline-driven volatility.
Confirmed dates for Putin's China visit (expected May 2025): watch for any joint economic or military agreements announced. Ongoing: weekly Ukraine battlefield updates. June 2025: NATO defense spending summit discussions. Any announcements from the G7 regarding expanded sanctions targeting Sino-Russian trade corridors.
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