Kathrine Frich
Over the past ten years, China and Russia have significantly strengthened their relationship.
Over the past ten years, China and Russia have significantly strengthened their partnership, economically, politically, and militarily.
Closer Military Collaboration
China announced Thursday that it aims to broaden its military collaboration with Russia, following President Xi Jinping’s high-profile attendance at a military parade in Moscow.
The event marked the 80th anniversary of the Allied victory in World War II and offered a symbolic backdrop for growing Sino-Russian defense ties.
Strategic Messaging Without Mentioning Ukraine
While the statement from China’s Ministry of Defense made no direct reference to the ongoing war in Ukraine, it stressed “pragmatic cooperation” and “strategic mutual trust” between the two countries.
This type of language has become a hallmark of China’s careful balancing act, projecting neutrality while deepening ties with Moscow.
Xi Jinping Joins Putin at Red Square Military Parade
Xi’s participation in last week’s Red Square parade underlined the strength of China-Russia relations.
The Chinese leader stood alongside Vladimir Putin as tanks rolled past and jets roared overhead, offering a powerful visual of alignment between the two authoritarian powers.
China and Russia: A Decade of Closer Ties
Over the past ten years, China and Russia have significantly strengthened their partnership, economically, politically, and militarily.
That trend accelerated after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, which China has notably refused to condemn.
Instead, Beijing has provided economic lifelines and diplomatic backing while positioning itself as a potential peace broker.
China’s Defense Ministry Hails “High-Level” Military Relations
According to defense spokesperson Jiang Bin, the two militaries already share a high level of collaboration.
“We are willing to work with the Russian side to enhance strategic mutual trust, expand practical cooperation, and consolidate the positive momentum of development,” he said.
A “New Era” of Strategic Partnership
Beijing referred to the alliance as a “comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era.”
This label highlights how both governments see their cooperation as a counterbalance to the Western-led international order, particularly NATO and U.S.-led alliances in Asia.
China’s Position: Neutral or Enabler?
Despite its official stance of neutrality, Western nations continue to accuse China of quietly enabling Russia’s war in Ukraine through trade, political shielding at the UN, and rhetorical alignment.
Critics argue that China’s posture of mediation is undermined by its one-sided engagement with Moscow.