China and Russia Strengthen Military Alliance with Joint Naval Exercises in the Sea of Japan

On Sunday, China and Russia commenced joint naval exercises in the Sea of Japan, seeking to bolster their alliance and counter what they perceive as a U.S.-dominated global framework.

In recent years, alongside enhancing their economic and political connections, Moscow and Beijing have increased military collaboration, a trend that has intensified since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

The «Joint Sea-2025» drills began in the waters off the Russian port of Vladivostok and are scheduled to continue for three days, as stated by China’s Defense Ministry.

The exercises will include operations for submarine rescue, joint anti-submarine actions, air defense, missile defense, and maritime combat.

Four Chinese naval vessels, including the guided-missile destroyers Shaoxing and Urumqi, are participating in these drills alongside ships from Russia, according to the ministry.

Following the exercises, the two nations will conduct naval patrols in «relevant waters of the Pacific.»

China and Russia have engaged in annual military exercises for several years, with the «Joint Sea» drills starting in 2012. The previous year’s exercises took place along China’s southern coastline.

The Chinese Defense Ministry commented on Friday that the current exercises aim to «further enhance the comprehensive strategic partnership» between the two nations.

China has not condemned Russia’s ongoing war, which has lasted for over three years, nor has it called for the withdrawal of Russian forces. Many of Ukraine’s allies, including the United States, suspect that Beijing has extended its support to Moscow.

China maintains that it is a neutral entity, often advocating for a ceasefire while also criticizing Western nations for prolonging the conflict by supplying arms to Ukraine.