BEIJING—China and Russia have commenced a joint naval exercise at a military port in southern China, as reported by state-run news agency Xinhua. This comes shortly after NATO allies referred to Beijing as a “decisive enabler” of the conflict in Ukraine.
The Chinese defense ministry stated that forces from both countries recently conducted patrols in the western and northern Pacific Ocean. They emphasized that the operation was unrelated to international or regional situations and was not directed at any third party.
The exercise, which began in Guangdong province and is scheduled to run until mid-July, is aimed at showcasing the navies’ capabilities in addressing security threats and maintaining peace and stability globally and regionally. State broadcaster CCTV reported that the drills would include anti-missile exercises, sea strikes, and air defense.
Xinhua News Agency detailed that the Chinese and Russian naval forces engaged in military simulations and tactical coordination exercises following the opening ceremony in Zhanjiang.
These joint drills follow recent tensions between China and NATO allies, with the military alliance highlighting China’s role in supporting Russia’s actions in Ukraine. The final communiqué from the NATO summit in Washington underscored shared security concerns arising from Russia and its allies, especially China.
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In response, the Chinese government criticized NATO for prioritizing its own security over others.
Last week, a U.S. Coast Guard cutter encountered several Chinese military ships in international waters within the U.S. exclusive economic zone during a routine patrol in the Bering Sea. The crew identified three vessels approximately 124 miles north of the Amchitka Pass in the Aleutian Islands, with a fourth ship spotted 84 miles north of the Amukta Pass.
American officials noted that the Chinese naval vessels adhered to international rules and norms during their operations.
