Defense ministers from China and Russia announced a reinforced path for military ties, signaling a heightened level of cooperation. The talks were conducted via video conference, with Dong Funhe presenting a strategic plan just weeks after his predecessor departed. In diplomatic practice, the first formal meeting of a new channel often carries symbolic weight, and Moscow’s choice of a new interlocutor underscores a broader intent to deepen alignment between the two powers.
Dong pressed for a robust dialogue. Russian defense minister Sergei Shoigu echoed the sentiment that the two nations are broadening their collaboration and elevating their military relationship to a higher plane to support a more stable and secure global environment. The Chinese media minutes confirm that discussions covered expanding cooperation in multiple domains, with the aim of enhancing joint operations and interoperability. The joint drills included sea, air, and land exercises of varying complexity, and the two nations have recently conducted activities in regions near the Sea of Japan. There were occasions when cross-border activities prompted reaction from neighboring states, including South Korea, which issued fighter alerts after incursions by combined Chinese and Russian forces.
Shoigu emphasized that Beijing and Moscow do not seek to form a bloc against any specific country. He reiterated that the relationship is not a formal military alliance, contrasting it with approaches seen in some Western nations. Chinese officials describe the current state of affairs as exceptionally strong, and both sides marked the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic ties as a milestone, calling the relationship the best in history.
Diplomatic cover
The public statement signals continued diplomatic breadth for Moscow and Beijing, drawing renewed attention from the West following the Ukraine conflict. Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin had publicly endorsed a framework of “unlimited cooperation” in the days leading up to the invasion, a signal that Beijing would not automatically join or escalate the conflict. While Washington publicly warned of potential support to Russia, it did not materialize in practice. The West remains cautious about any military assistance and continues to scrutinize Beijing’s position on arms transfers.
In China, the defense ministry and its leadership carry distinct roles within the political framework. The defense minister oversees representation of the People’s Liberation Army and manages relationships with international counterparts, including media presence and formal diplomacy. The statements from Dong reflect the tone of Chinese political leadership on security matters. One central task for Dong is to normalize and align relations with senior Chinese military officials following a period of renewed engagement with the United States in December. The growing presence of naval and aerial activity in the Formosa Strait and South China Sea remains a risk factor for regional stability.
Dong’s early tenure has seen him navigate a transition in leadership circles. Li Shangfu, one of the shortest-serving ministers in the country’s modern history, exited after a brief period in office amid an investigation into defense sector corruption. Dong’s appointment came two months later, and observers anticipate a broader reshuffle of senior party and military leadership at the upcoming plenary session. Other senior figures, including the foreign minister and the top commander of the army, are viewed as potential participants in any forthcoming realignment, depending on internal party decisions and ongoing investigations.