China and Russia to conduct naval exercise near Japan

The Chinese military plans a naval exercise with Russia near Japan next month.

China and Russia strengthen military ties with upcoming naval exercise

The Chinese military has revealed plans to conduct an annual naval exercise called Joint Sea 2025 next month alongside Russian forces. This exercise will take place in the waters near Vladivostok, across from Japan's western coastline. Despite concerns about deepening ties between China and Russia, Defense Ministry spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang emphasized that these drills are part of a recurring cooperation plan and are not directed at any specific country. Critics, including Japan's Defense Ministry, see this rising military collaboration as a significant security threat. As tensions remain high in the region, the U.S. has been conducting its largest military exercise in the Pacific, which has drawn criticism from China.

The planned naval exercise underscores the growing military collaboration between China and Russia, which raises alarms in Japan and other neighboring nations. The increasing frequency of joint drills suggests a solidifying partnership, particularly as China has been increasingly supportive of Russia amid Western sanctions. This latest move may further complicate the security landscape in the Asia-Pacific as it intersects with U.S. military activities, highlighting a tilt toward a new form of geopolitical rivalry. Moreover, it poses critical questions about regional stability and the U.S.'s strategic military presence in the area.

Highlights

The evolving dynamics between these nations will likely influence future military strategies.