Russia, China Hold Joint Naval Drills in Sea of Japan Amid Tensions With US

Russia and China launched their Joint Sea 2025 naval drills on Sunday, August 5, near Vladivostok in the Sea of Japan.

The drills will continue for three days. Both countries say the goal is to deepen their comprehensive strategic partnership.

China’s Ministry of Defence announced that four Chinese warships are participating in the exercises.

The drills include air defence, anti-missile operations, anti-submarine warfare, submarine rescue, and maritime combat training.

Both navies are testing joint coordination in combat situations. They are also increasing their ability to respond to shared threats.

These exercises highlight the growing military ties between Beijing and Moscow in recent years.

Since 2022, Russia and China have expanded cooperation in energy, trade, and security.

China refused to sanction Russia after its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Instead, China maintained strong economic ties and increased military engagement with Russia.

Although China claims neutrality in the war, many Western nations disagree.

Ukraine and its allies accuse China of supplying Russia with dual-use technologies and strategic equipment.

China denies these claims. Still, its actions have fueled rising suspicion in Western capitals.

Importantly, the timing and location of these drills have raised regional concerns.

The exercises take place close to Japan’s maritime borders. Japan views this as a direct challenge to its security.

Last month, Japan’s Ministry of Defence warned about the growing Russia-China military cooperation.

Officials in Tokyo said the partnership could destabilize the Indo-Pacific region.

Russia and China began the Joint Sea series in 2012. They hold the drills annually in different locations.

Last year’s drills took place near China’s southern coast. This year, they moved closer to Japan.

By shifting north, both countries are signaling their increased naval reach and confidence.

The drills also show their intent to challenge U.S. and allied influence in East Asia.

Strategically, these exercises are more than routine military training.

They reflect a shared interest in countering Western power and reshaping the regional order.

Furthermore, the Russia China joint naval drills 2025 send a global message of defiance and partnership.

With global tensions rising, many analysts warn these moves could deepen geopolitical divisions.

Still, neither Moscow nor Beijing shows signs of slowing their military alignment.

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