As the war of Russian invasion of Ukraine continues with no end in sight, the relationship between China and Russia has grown increasingly closer. The two countries are not only cooperating economically but also showing clear signs of an informal military alliance. This is something that many international observers have long warned about, as this relationship not only affects the situation in Ukraine but also carries the potential to shift the global military balance. So, how have China and Russia been cooperating? What are the goals and impacts of this alliance?
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and China’s support
Evidence suggests Russia cannot sustain the war without China’s support
The war between Russia and Ukraine has lasted for more than two and a half years, and now there is substantial evidence suggesting that Russia would struggle to sustain the war without support from China. China has consistently supplied Russia with “dual-use” items—products that can be used for both civilian and military purposes. This indirect but crucial support has helped Russia avoid shortages of key components needed for the war.
U.S. accusations of China supplying lethal weapons
In early September 2024, Washington accused China of providing direct military support to Russia for the first time. U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell claimed that Beijing had supplied Russia with lethal weapons on a large scale. These are no longer just “dual-use” items like electronic components but direct weapons fueling Russia’s war machine. This has heightened concerns in the West about the deepening cooperation between Russia and China in the Ukraine conflict.
In addition to weapons, Russia has also exchanged advanced military technology with China, ranging from submarines to missiles. This cooperation could alter the balance of power not just in Europe but globally, especially in the Pacific region, where China is fiercely competing with the U.S. and its allies.
Objectives and impacts of China-Russia military cooperation
China’s goals in cooperating with Russia
China has skillfully exploited the war in Ukraine to gain significant economic and military advantages. One of the biggest benefits for Beijing has been its ability to purchase Russian oil and gas at very low prices, helping China save considerably in the face of high energy demand. Moreover, military cooperation with Russia has also given China access to advanced military technology, boosting its own military capabilities.
Global impacts of Military cooperation
The military cooperation between China and Russia not only affects the war in Ukraine but also has a major impact globally. Western countries, especially the U.S. and NATO, are worried that this relationship will bolster the military strength of both nations, further heightening tensions in the Pacific and European regions. This military alliance could lead China to adopt a more aggressive stance in dealing with U.S. allies, particularly in the South China Sea and the Pacific.
Russia’s advanced military technology and benefits for China
One of the main reasons why China is increasingly aligning itself with Russia is the military benefits it gains from Moscow. Russia possesses advanced military technology, especially in the fields of submarines and ballistic missiles. With Russia’s support, China has completed its Type 096 nuclear submarine. This submarine is quieter and harder to detect, and it is equipped with JL3 intercontinental nuclear missiles capable of reaching the U.S.
This cooperation has significantly enhanced China’s naval strength and has the potential to shift the balance of power in the Pacific region, where competition between the U.S. and China is intense.
Large-scale military exercises between Russia and China
Another sign of the growing military cooperation between Russia and China is their frequent large-scale military exercises. In September 2024, the two countries conducted a major naval exercise named “Ocean 2024,” spanning several strategic regions such as the Pacific, Arctic, Mediterranean, and Caspian Seas. This is considered one of Russia’s most important military drills since the collapse of the Soviet Union.
The exercise not only enhanced the two nations’ military coordination capabilities but also sent a strong message to the U.S. and its allies that Russia and China are prepared to face any challenges from the West.
Conclusion
There is no denying that China and Russia are becoming more closely aligned in the military sphere. While the two countries have not officially declared a military alliance, recent actions suggest they are moving toward a deeper military relationship. This relationship is not only altering the situation in Ukraine but also has the potential to significantly impact the Pacific region and the world. The international community needs to closely monitor this alliance’s development and take appropriate measures to respond.