China, Russia launch joint naval drills in Sea of Japan

China and Russia have commenced joint naval exercises in the Sea of Japan, signaling a deepening military partnership aimed at countering what both nations describe as a United States-led global order.

The three-day "Joint Sea-2025" drills began on August 3 near the Russian port city of Vladivostok, according to a statement from China’s Ministry of National Defence. The exercises include submarine rescue missions, joint anti-submarine warfare, air defence and anti-missile operations, as well as maritime combat drills, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

Four Chinese warships, including the guided-missile destroyers Shaoxing and Urumqi, are participating alongside vessels from the Russian Navy. Following the drills, both navies are expected to carry out joint patrols in the Pacific.

The annual "Joint Sea" drills, first launched in 2012, were held last year off China’s southern coast. This year’s location in the Sea of Japan has drawn concern from regional powers. Japan’s Ministry of Defence recently warned that growing military cooperation between China and Russia poses significant security risks.

Despite these concerns, the Russian Pacific Fleet emphasized that the exercises are “defensive in nature” and “not directed against other countries,” according to a report by the US Naval Institute.

China’s Defence Ministry said the drills aim to “further deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership” between the two nations. Beijing has played a key role in sustaining Russia economically amid Western sanctions following Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

While China has called for an end to the conflict, it has refrained from condemning Russia or demanding a troop withdrawal. Many Western governments, including the United States, believe China has indirectly supported Russia’s war effort.

European leaders have urged Beijing to use its influence to pressure Moscow, but China continues to describe itself as a neutral actor, blaming the West for prolonging the war by arming Ukraine.

By Sabina Mammadli