As Russian President Vladimir Putin prepares for his heavily choreographed May 9 “Victory Day” military parade, he’s been clear who’s at the top of his guest list: Xi Jinping.

The Russian president applauded China and Russia's partnership and called "the combat brotherhood" of the two nations a key pillar to its strategic cooperation, as Moscow's all-out war in Ukraine continues.

Russia commemorated the 80th anniversary of its victory over Nazi Germany with a grand military parade in Moscow's Red Square. The event was attended by President Vladimir Putin and several international leaders,