BEIJING: China’s defense minister, Dong Jun, expressed unwavering support for Russia’s war in Ukraine during a video call with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Shoigu. The high-level talks between the defense officials also touched upon boosting military cooperation and coordination between the two nations.
The public endorsement of Russia’s actions in Ukraine by China comes amid escalating tensions surrounding the Ukraine crisis and growing international pressure.
A video released by the Russian government featured Dong Jun’s message to Shoigu, highlighting China’s solidarity with Russia on the Ukraine issue despite external pressures. Dong acknowledged the challenges Russia faces due to isolation from the US and the West and expressed strong support for justice.
“In recent years, the US and the Western world have been isolating Russia. We understand and care about Russia’s situation all the time, and we strongly support justice,” Dong stated in the video.
Cooperation Between China and Russia
The official readout of the meeting by China’s ministry of defense did not specifically mention Dong Jun’s comments regarding support for Russia’s Ukraine war. However, it highlighted the exchange of views on international and regional issues of common interest, emphasizing the need to implement consensus reached by their respective heads of state.
Dong Jun outlined a vision for the two nations to enhance strategic trust, expand practical cooperation, and elevate their military-to-military relationship. The defense minister emphasized the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Russia in 2024 as an opportunity to deepen their comprehensive strategic coordination.
Sergei Shoigu clarified that, despite the growing cooperation, the relationship between China and Russia does not constitute a formal military alliance. He highlighted the unique nature of their partnership, emphasizing their commitment to a robust strategic partnership in defense through regular joint military exercises and training activities.
The support from China comes at a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict and underscores the deepening ties between the two nations, which both leaders have hailed as the “best in history” under the leadership of Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin.
