Vladamir Putin set for talks with Xi Jinping amid Ukraine tensions

The Russian leader’s arrival from Moscow early on Friday afternoon was confirmed by Russian state news agency RIA

Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping in Beijing. Picture: Sputnik via AP

Russian president Vladimir Putin has arrived in Beijing for the opening of the Winter Olympic Games and talks with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping, as the two leaders look to project themselves as a counterweight to the US and its allies.

The Russian leader’s visit comes amid growing Chinese support for Moscow in its dispute with Ukraine that threatens to break out into armed conflict.