Military Cooperation Between China and Russia
By late 2024, China had trained approximately 200 Russian military personnel, some of whom returned to fight in the war against Ukraine after completing their training. This training was made possible under an agreement between Moscow and Beijing, signed on July 2, 2025. According to three European intelligence agencies, the training of Russian troops took place at facilities in Beijing and Nanjing.
Agreement Details and Implications
The agreement stipulated that Russian soldiers would gain knowledge and skills in operating:
- drones,
- electronic warfare systems,
- army aviation,
- armored infantry.
China's drone industry provided access to new technologies and training methods, including the use of flight simulators. A significant portion of the Russian trainees were instructors and officers, highlighting the serious approach to the training.
Chinese military trips to Russia had been ongoing since 2024, and intelligence confirmed the identities of Russian soldiers ranging in rank from junior sergeant to lieutenant colonel. After completing their training, these soldiers participated in combat operations involving drones in the temporarily occupied Crimea and Zaporizhzhia regions. These facts point to active military cooperation between China and Russia, which could significantly impact the course of the conflict in Ukraine.
Russian President Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to China will be his 25th trip to the country. According to reports, the agenda for the future meeting may include bilateral relations, economic cooperation, and international issues. These circumstances underscore the importance of the strategic partnership between the two nations amid current geopolitical challenges.
This military cooperation between China and Russia may indicate a deepening of strategic relations between the states, which, in the context of global political shifts, could significantly affect the security situation in the region.
In particular, the training of Russian soldiers in China could give Moscow access to cutting-edge technologies, potentially altering the tactical situation on the front lines in Ukraine. The further development of these ties, as well as the outcomes of future negotiations between the countries' leaders, could be pivotal in shaping the geopolitical landscape in Asia and Europe.
As Russia strengthens its military capabilities with China's support, the upcoming visit of President Vladimir Putin to China is poised to further solidify their alliance. This trip, marking his 25th to the nation, will likely address crucial aspects of their partnership, including military cooperation and economic ties. For insights into Putin's message to the Chinese public ahead of this significant visit, see more about his recorded address here.