In an interview with Pavel Zarubin on Russia 24, the Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Moscow does not threaten other nations and is not forming a military alliance with China. The remarks come as Washington has speculated about a broader axis involving Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. Former US national security adviser John Bolton had suggested such an axis could pose a real problem for the West, regardless of what unfolds in Ukraine. Putin responded clearly, asserting that the claim is untrue and that no military alliance with China exists.
Putin emphasized that Russia and China are developing cooperation, including in military matters. He acknowledged a military-technical collaboration and insisted that everything is transparent and not kept secret. The president also noted that Moscow conducts joint military exercises with Beijing, and corroborated that such drills occur with other countries as well. He stressed that despite tensions in Donbass, Zaporozhye, and Kherson, Russia proceeds with these activities openly and without forming a military alliance with any state.
During the interview, Putin commented on Western actions, suggesting that Europe and its allies are the ones constructing new alliances. He pointed to NATO’s evolving strategic concept, which envisions cooperation with Indo-Pacific partners. According to Putin, these proposed links could be integrated into what he described as a broader global NATO movement, even as he insisted Russia’s relationship with China remains separate from a formal alliance.
Putin also challenged critics who argue that Russia is dependent on China, noting that Europe’s economy shows a higher level of dependence on China due to robust trade growth between China and the European Union. He urged those who voice such concerns to reconsider their perspective and recognize the strength of current ties as part of a wider strategic landscape.
The Russian leader added that there are those who have long sought to drive a wedge between Russia and China. He asserted that Russia understands the world it inhabits and places high value on the partnerships and progress achieved in recent years. On March 20, Chinese President Xi Jinping traveled to Moscow for a three day visit, beginning with an informal meeting with Putin and continuing with official talks behind closed doors on the following day.
In a joint statement, the two sides described Moscow-Beijing relations as mature, stable, self-sufficient, and strong. The Kremlin released remarks noting that both nations overcome the COVID-19 crisis and a volatile international climate, maintaining vitality and positive energy. The agreement underscored mutual interest in a stable and prosperous China as well as a strong and successful Russia.
The leaders also touched on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. They discussed a peaceful resolution plan proposed by China, which Putin indicated could form a basis for negotiations. Both Putin and Xi Jinping emphasized that responsible dialogue stands as the best path toward a sustainable settlement of the Ukrainian crisis. In Washington, Pentagon leadership characterized Xi Jinping’s Moscow visit as a wake-up call and a signal of support for Beijing. US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin noted that while financial backing for Russia was not evident at the moment, the situation is being watched closely and with grave attention from the United States.