Russia and China are holding joint military exercises in the East Sea, one of which is a simulation to counter enemy air attacks. They also conducted rescue exercises at sea. As well as perfecting the ability of helicopters to take off and land on the deck of warships.
In addition they also practiced “refueling with ships and moving cargo. Video released by Russian news agency TASS shows nine large ships sailing in a diamond formation. The ship’s crew can be seen monitoring the situation from the deck. Referring to the statement of the Russian Ministry of Defense, the ship detachment has crossed more than 6,400 nautical miles since the exercise began.

This joint exercise is seen as a signal of strengthening relations between Russia and China amid the ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

In July, Russia and China also conducted joint patrols in the Sea of Japan and the East China Sea.
The drills and joint patrols have sparked concern in the region. South Korea even deployed fighter jets to be on standby when Russia-China held patrols last July. The closeness of Moscow and Beijing is also reflected in the visit of the Chinese Defense Minister, Li Shangfu, to Russia to attend an international security conference this week.

After going to Moscow, Li also visited Russia’s close ally, Belarus. Since Russia started its invasion of Ukraine, China has actually been trying to take a neutral position. They called for an end to the violence, but never criticized Russian aggression.
Recently, however, China and Russia have continued to strengthen military ties with joint patrols and exercises.

It is also not the first time Li has visited Moscow since the invasion began. In April, Li met President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Last month, Li also met the Russian navy in Beijing.

However, China also offered peace proposals for Russia and Ukraine. To smooth the bid, China’s Special Envoy for Eurasian Affairs, Li Hui, met Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, in May.

Earlier this month, Li Hui met representatives of dozens of other countries in Saudi Arabia. Without inviting Russia, the dozens of countries discussed the fate of Ukraine and prospects for peace.

Li Hui said the outcome of the meeting was positive, while Russia took the meeting with cynicism.

Read More : Russia and China are holding joint military exercises in the East Sea, one of which is a simulation to counter enemy air attacks.