The Enduring Sino–Russian Strategic Relations of Mutual Dependence—The Attribute of Military Cooperation

Beijing’s relatively ambiguous response to the Ukraine War has tested how
firm the Sino—Russian strategic partnership is. This article aims to decipher
the endurance and complexity of Sino-Russian strategic relations by evaluating
the nature and dynamics of Sino-Russian defense cooperation amid
the worsening international environment against both countries. By examining
two Sino-Russian Joint Exercises and analyzing their joint military
patrols, exercises, and technological projects, this article argues that the
general Sino-Russian military collaboration has been enhanced. Beijing and
Moscow have gradually strengthened the combat orientation of their
military cooperation to deter the perceived third-party threat, solidify
their strategic partnership and against the challenges posed by conflicting
interests in the overall bilateral interaction. Both Beijing and Moscow consistently
remain vigilant against the risks of abandonment and entrapment,
emphasizing the importance of maintaining strategic autonomy and
refraining from formal alliances. However, they confront the worst-case
scenario of being simultaneously dragged into two separate armed conflicts
by a shared adversary. Therefore, align with their own national interests,
the ability of Beijing and Moscow to achieve a delicate equilibrium
between avoiding entrapment and preventing abandonment will determine
the vitality and long-term trajectory of their strategic partnership.