China and Russia Conduct Joint Naval Exercises Amid Rising Global Tensions

China and Russia have commenced joint naval exercises, dubbed "Joint Sea-2024," at a military port in Tshanjiang, Guangdong Province. The maneuvers, which began on July 14, are scheduled to continue until mid-July amidst heightened tensions with the US-led NATO alliance.

According to China's defense ministry, the exercises aim to showcase the resolve and capabilities of both nations in addressing maritime security threats and promoting global and regional peace and stability. These drills include anti-missile exercises, sea strikes, and air defense operations, as reported by state broadcaster CCTV.

Xinhua News Agency noted that after the opening ceremony in Zhanjiang, Chinese and Russian naval forces conducted military simulations and tactical coordination exercises. The timing of the exercises coincides with the conclusion of the NATO summit in Washington, where NATO members criticized China's support for Russia amid the conflict in Ukraine.

NATO's recent communiqué labeled Beijing as a "decisive enabler" of Russia's actions in Ukraine, citing extensive military and industrial support. In response, Moscow accused Western nations of exacerbating the conflict by supplying weapons to Ukraine, warning against prolonged instability as a result.

China condemned NATO's accusations as unreasonable and accused the alliance of interfering in its internal affairs and destabilizing the Asia-Pacific region after creating turmoil in Europe. Chinese spokesperson Lin Jian urged NATO to cease such actions and refrain from tarnishing China's international reputation.