WSJ: The leader Xi Jinping once called his ‘role model’ is now Beijing’s supplicant, and China is making Putin wait for the gas deal Moscow badly needs

The dynamics between Russia and China have dramatically shifted amid four years of war and economic isolation for Russia. Vladimir Putin, who once was admired by Xi Jinping, now finds himself in a subordinate position, seeking China's favor for a crucial gas deal. Despite efforts to maintain the facade of a strong and equal alliance, underlying disagreements between the two nations are more significant than they appear. This evolving relationship underscores the complex geopolitical shifts happening in the region, reflecting a broader realignment of power. For more details, it's worth checking out the full article.