China and Russia started joint naval exercises on Sunday in southern China, days after NATO called Beijing a “decisive enabler” of the Ukraine war. Two Russian corvettes, the Gromky and the Rezky, arrived in Zhanjiang for the “Maritime Cooperation – 2024” drills.
The Chinese defense ministry stated the operation, unrelated to current international tensions, aims to demonstrate naval capabilities and enhance security. The exercise will include anti-missile drills, sea strikes, and air defense.
This joint effort follows recent NATO criticism of China’s support for Russia, which China rebuffed, accusing NATO of creating global instability. Meanwhile, U.S. officials reported spotting Chinese military ships in the Bering Sea, which operated within international norms.
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