Russia and China began joint naval exercises in the Sea of Japan on Sunday. In total, the two countries will practice combat at sea for three days, including with submarines.
The exercises start two days after US President Donald Trump ordered two nuclear submarines to be placed in “the right regions”. He did this in response to remarks by former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. The exercises were planned well before Trump’s action.
According to news agency Interfax, exercises will include a large Russian ship that can detect submarines and two Chinese naval vessels. Submarines from both countries are also said to be involved. China has also sent a rescue ship. The joint exercises are called Maritime Interaction-2025.
In addition to their economic and political ties, Russia and China have strengthened their military cooperation in recent years. It is the first time since 2012 that the two countries have held joint naval exercises.
Beijing has never condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine. China maintains that it is a neutral party in the war, but many Western allies of Ukraine believe that China is providing support to Russia.