China hopes to see Russia and the US maintain communication, improve relations, and promote a political solution to the Ukraine crisis, China Central Television (CCTV) reported, referring to a phone call today between Chinese president Xi Jinping and Russian president Vladimir Putin.

Russian president Vladimir Putin (right) and Chinese president Xi Jinping shake hands at a welcome ceremony at the Kremlin on 8/5. Photo: AFP

Russian president Vladimir Putin (right) and Chinese president Xi Jinping shake hands at a welcome ceremony at the Kremlin on 8/5. Photo: AFP

Pham Giang (AFP, CCTV)