Vladimir Putin begins two-day China visit as Russia presses new Ukraine offensive

China's president, Xi Jinping, welcomed his Russian counterpart on Thursday as Vladimir Putin began a two-day state visit while Moscow presses forward with a new offensive in Ukraine. Mr Jinping said China and Russia will continue to uphold a position of non-alliance, non-confrontation and no targeting of a third party in their foreign policy. The two men have signed a joint statement on deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between Russia and China. They shook hands at a welcome ceremony after Mr Putin's arrival in Beijing at dawn. Mr Putin, Mr Xi and other top officials are expected to hold meetings…