China and Russia launched a new round of joint naval exercises in the Sea of Japan on Sunday, part of ongoing efforts to reinforce their military and strategic ties. The drills, dubbed “Joint Sea-2025,” began near the Russian port of Vladivostok and are set to last three days.
Four Chinese warships, including the guided-missile destroyers Shaoxing and Urumqi, are participating alongside Russian naval vessels. Following the exercises, both countries plan to conduct joint patrols in parts of the Pacific.
These annual drills, which began in 2012, reflect the growing defense partnership between Moscow and Beijing, particularly since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. China has maintained close ties with Russia throughout the conflict.
Despite declaring neutrality, Beijing has avoided criticizing Moscow’s military actions and frequently blames Western nations for escalating the war by arming Ukraine. Chinese officials say the drills aim to deepen strategic cooperation between the two nations.
