China and Russia have begun a week-long joint annual naval exercise in the Sea of Japan. Taking place from Aug. 1 to 5 near Vladivostok, the drill—dubbed Maritime Interaction 2025—marks the sixth of its kind.
Last year, the drill was held off southern China in the South China Sea.
It comes amid growing international concern over Russian and Chinese military cooperation. Both sides have stated that the latest military operation is defensive in nature and not directed at any third party.
Chinese officials described the exercise as a practical measure to develop joint strategies and foster consensus between the two nations, according to state-owned media China Daily. Russia shared this sentiment, with Russian Vice Admiral Denis Berezovsky stating that the exercises were for defensive and peacekeeping purposes, reported state news outlet TASS….
China, Russia Launch Joint Naval Drills Amid Growing Concern Over Their Military Ties
