The relationship between China and Russia has significant implications for U.S. interests, according to experts from the Brookings Institution's John L. Thornton China Center. Their commentary outlines how the strategic alignment of these two nations poses challenges across military, economic, and diplomatic domains.
The deepening partnership between Beijing and Moscow is fueled by shared grievances against the current international order and concerns about perceived threats, particularly from the United States. The alignment will test the incoming Trump administration as it seeks to navigate these complex dynamics.
China's economic and diplomatic support for Russia plays a critical role in sustaining its military actions in Ukraine, which threatens global stability and risks involving the United States in a European conflict. According to experts, "China has supplied Russia with industrial inputs," including dual-use technologies that bolster Russia's defense capabilities.
Beyond Europe, China's collaboration with Russia extends to weakening American influence globally by creating alternative supply chains and financial systems that reduce reliance on U.S.-dominated structures. This cooperation is part of an effort to diminish Western influence while strengthening ties with countries in the Global South.
Military cooperation between China and Russia presents additional challenges in regions like the Indo-Pacific. Increased joint exercises complicate strategic planning for the United States and its allies. The two nations' technological cooperation also raises security concerns due to advanced military equipment exchanges.
Experts note that while both countries aim to erode U.S. influence, their interests are not fully aligned. For instance, China prioritizes regional stability due to its economic stakes but sees ongoing conflicts as greater issues for Washington than itself.
Despite pronouncements of a "no limits" partnership, historical tensions suggest potential rifts could emerge over time. Beijing's bilateral relations with other nations like North Korea remain cautious despite its ties with Moscow.
The authors recommend that U.S. policy should focus on preventing further deepening of Sino-Russian relations while maintaining open communication channels for potential future engagement opportunities. Additionally, signaling China's benefits from limiting support for Russia could encourage more cooperative behavior.
In summary, managing this complex relationship requires nuanced strategies aimed at countering efforts undermining U.S leadership while promoting an inclusive international order beneficial to all parties involved.
