Sun Aug 03 07:36:21 UTC 2025: ## China and Russia Launch Joint Naval Drills in Sea of Japan

**Vladivostok, Russia** – China and Russia commenced joint naval exercises, dubbed “Joint Sea-2025,” in the Sea of Japan near Vladivostok on Sunday, signaling a further strengthening of their strategic partnership. The drills, scheduled to last for three days, involve submarine rescue, anti-submarine warfare, air defense, anti-missile operations, and maritime combat scenarios, according to China’s Ministry of National Defence.

Participating vessels include four Chinese ships, including guided-missile destroyers Shaoxing and Urumqi, alongside an unspecified number of Russian ships. Following the drills, the two nations plan to conduct joint naval patrols in the Pacific Ocean.

These annual “Joint Sea” exercises, which began in 2012, come as China and Russia deepen their ties, particularly with China providing economic support to Russia amidst Western sanctions related to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The exercises have drawn scrutiny from regional powers. Japan’s Ministry of Defence, in its recent annual report, expressed “serious security concerns” over the growing military cooperation between China and Russia.

While the Russian Navy Pacific Fleet has characterized the exercise as “defensive in nature and not directed against other countries,” the timing and location of the drills highlight the increasingly coordinated stance of China and Russia on the global stage. The Chinese Defence Ministry stated on Friday that the exercises are aimed at “further deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership” between the two nations.

The drills take place amidst ongoing international tensions regarding the war in Ukraine. While China maintains a position of neutrality, calling for an end to hostilities, it has faced criticism for not condemning Russia’s actions and for allegedly providing support to Moscow. European leaders have urged China to use its influence to pressure Russia to end the war, but Beijing has shown no indication of altering its stance.

Read More