China and Russia launched joint naval exercises in the Sea of Japan on Sunday, aiming to reinforce their strategic alliance and challenge what they view as a US-dominated global order.
Beyond deepening economic and political ties, Moscow and Beijing have significantly ramped up their military cooperation—especially since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
The three-day “Joint Sea-2025” drills began near the Russian port of Vladivostok, according to a statement released by China’s defense ministry. The exercises involve four Chinese naval vessels, including the guided-missile destroyers Shaoxing and Urumqi, operating alongside Russian warships.
Following the exercises, the two nations will conduct coordinated naval patrols in parts of the Pacific Ocean deemed strategically relevant.
China and Russia have held annual joint drills since 2012 under the “Joint Sea” banner. Last year’s edition took place off China’s southern coast.
China’s defense ministry stated Friday that the drills aim to “further deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership” between the two countries.
Despite mounting international pressure, China has neither condemned Russia’s war in Ukraine nor demanded a withdrawal of its forces. Western nations, including the United States, suspect Beijing has quietly supported Moscow.
While China claims to remain neutral, it frequently calls for a negotiated end to the war and criticizes Western military aid to Ukraine as a factor that prolongs the conflict.
