Russia and China engaged in significant defense and military discussions aimed at strengthening their partnership, as stated by Russia‘s defense minister on Tuesday. This meeting reflects the deepening of their “no limits” alliance and an increased critique of U.S. attempts to expand its influence in Asia.

According to a post on the Russian defense ministry’s Telegram channel, Defense Minister Andrei Belousov noted that the military sectors of both nations share similar views on global developments and have a mutual understanding of the necessary actions in the current context.

Belousov reported that he had “very substantive” discussions with Zhang Youxia, the vice chairman of China’s Central Military Commission. Following the meeting, China’s Defense Ministry expressed a desire to enhance and broaden military relations while ensuring ongoing high-level communications. Belousov’s trip to Beijing coincided with China’s military’s announcement of potential further actions regarding Taiwan, following a series of military exercises intended as a warning against “separatist acts,” which were met with disapproval from both Taiwanese and U.S. officials.

In February 2022, China and Russia established a “no limits” partnership during President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Beijing, just weeks prior to the onset of a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which marked the most lethal land conflict in Europe since World War II.

In May of this year, Putin and Xi Jinping announced a “new era” of collaboration between the two nations, positioning themselves as formidable challengers to U.S. dominance, which they accuse of creating global disorder reminiscent of a Cold War mentality.

Belousov noted that Putin and Xi have committed to enhancing their “strategic partnership,” although he did not elaborate on specifics. He expressed confidence that significant and impactful decisions are forthcoming.

Recently, Russia reaffirmed its support for China on various Asian matters, including criticism of the U.S. efforts to expand its influence and what they describe as “deliberate attempts” to escalate tensions regarding Taiwan.

The U.S. has accused China of aiding Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine by supplying dual-use goods, such as microelectronics, that could be utilized in weapon production. In response, China has maintained that it has not supplied arms to any party and insists that normal trade with Russia should continue without interruption.