China and Russia conclude joint naval exercises in the Sea of Japan, signaling growing military ties.

China and Russia have completed five days of joint naval exercises in the Sea of Japan, featuring anti-submarine and live-fire drills. This reflects the growing military cooperation between the two nations, with over 113 joint exercises since 2003, half occurring in the last six years. The exercises, coinciding with tensions in the region, including disputes over Taiwan and islands in the South China Sea, aim to strengthen their strategic partnership and send a deterrent signal.