• China and Russia have initiated the "Joint Sea-2025" naval drills in the Sea of Japan.
• The exercises, lasting until August 5, involve various military operations including anti-submarine and air defense.
• This partnership aims to counterbalance perceived US dominance and strengthen ties after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

China and Russia commenced joint naval drills in the Sea of Japan on Sunday, as part of the "Joint Sea-2025" exercises that will last for three days. These maneuvers are aimed at reinforcing their partnership and counterbalancing what they view as a United States-led global order. According to the Chinese Defence Ministry, the drills will include submarine rescue, anti-submarine missions, air defense, and maritime combat activities, involving various vessels from both nations, including guided-missile destroyers Shaoxing and Urumqi, alongside Russian ships, according to Channel News Asia and Al Jazeera.

These naval exercises are part of a broader strategy to enhance military collaboration between the two countries, which has significantly intensified since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The drills not only facilitate military training but also signal the deepening of their "no-limits" strategic partnership. A representative of the Russian Navy stated that the exercises are defensive in nature and not directed against other countries, as confirmed by The Jakarta Post and TRT Global.

Scheduled well before actions taken by the US, the drills commenced just days after US President Trump ordered the deployment of two nuclear submarines to the region, highlighting escalating tensions. The joint exercises feature numerous operations, including artillery firing and anti-submarine drills conducted by both Russian and Chinese vessels, as noted by Al Jazeera and TRT Global.

China's role during the current conflict involving Ukraine is pivotal, as it hasn’t condemned Russia's actions and maintains a stance of declared neutrality. Instead, Beijing criticizes Western nations for allegedly prolonging the conflict. Following a call from European leaders for China to influence Russia towards peace, the country remains focused on solidifying its partnership with Moscow through these military exercises, according to Channel News Asia and The Jakarta Post.