Xi Jinping, China’s leader, is reinforcing his bond with President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia. But that could hurt Beijing’s efforts to repair ties with Europe.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is due to start a four-day visit to Russia on Wednesday, giving President Vladimir Putin an important diplomatic boost at a time when the Russian leader is keen to show his country is not isolated on the world stage.

Vice President JD Vance said Wednesday that the Russians are “asking for too much” in requirements to end the war with Ukraine and that he believes it’s time the two sides come together in “direct negotiation.

Vice President JD Vance says Russia was “asking for too much” in its initial peace offer as the United States looks to bring about an end to the war in Ukraine

The vice president told the Munich Leaders Meeting that the U.S. wants to see Ukraine and Russia speak directly.