Kathrine Frich
When two giant neighbours shake hands, the rest of the world usually watches closely to see what happens next.
But sometimes the most important details stay quietly out of sight. A new report shows exactly what goes on behind closed doors.
Quiet deal in Beijing
Late last year, around 200 Russian troops packed their bags for a highly unusual trip. They headed east for specialized training.
According to Reuters cited by United24Media, these soldiers were quietly hosted on Chinese soil. Three European intelligence services provided the data that finally exposed the secret operation.
Behind the scenes, the plan took shape during a July 2025 meeting in Beijing. Senior military leaders signed a formal swap agreement.
Under the new deal, Russia sent its forces straight to facilities in Beijing and Nanjing. Moscow promised to return the favor. They agreed to host and train hundreds of Chinese personnel.
Learning new skills
Both sides worked hard to keep things totally quiet. The strict deal reportedly banned all media coverage and stopped anyone from telling third parties about the trip.
Once the soldiers arrived in China, they got straight to work. Reuters noted that recent intelligence findings show a heavy focus on modern battlefield tactics.
Instructors taught them about drone warfare and electronic systems. They also practiced mechanized infantry operations.
Local defense companies even stepped in to help out. They gave the visiting troops access to flight simulators and advanced tech.
Back to the frontline
This was no basic camp for fresh recruits. Many of the visiting Russians were actually senior military instructors.
They soaked up the new knowledge. And they did not waste any time. The men brought those skills home to teach other units back in Russia.
By the time they finished their overseas course, one European intelligence agency was tracking their movements. The troops soon popped up on the front lines.
Reuters reported that officers ranging from junior sergeants to lieutenant colonels joined active drone operations. They were spotted. European agencies tracked them in occupied Crimea and Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region.
A shifting relationship
Military ties between the two nations keep growing stronger. Chinese delegations have visited Russia regularly since early 2024.
Yet hosting Russian troops on Chinese soil feels like a major leap. Intelligence officials told Reuters it represents a completely new level of cooperation between the two powers.
Before the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Beijing and Moscow famously announced a “no limits” partnership. They promised to run joint defense activities.
Now, that pledge is taking a very real shape. The news breaks just as Vladimir Putin heads to China for a trip lasting two days, leaving behind a massive nuclear drill at home.
Sources: Reuters, United24Media
