China Strengthens Military Ties and Capabilities Amid Taiwan Tensions

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for bolstering the military’s “deterrence and combat capabilities” after inspecting a missile brigade. This follows large-scale military exercises near Taiwan, viewed as provocative by Taiwan’s authorities. Separately, China and Russia have reaffirmed their strong military relationship, with Chinese Vice Chairman Zhang Youxia meeting Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, signaling continued cooperation. Xi is set to visit Russia for the BRICS summit as the war in Ukraine remains a key discussion point.

China is ramping up its military readiness as President Xi Jinping inspected a missile brigade of the People’s Liberation Army, urging his forces to bolster their “deterrence and combat capabilities.” This inspection follows recent large-scale military drills near Taiwan, which have been seen as provocative by Taiwan’s government.

In a related event, Zhang Youxia, Vice Chairman of China’s Central Military Commission, met with Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, highlighting the strength of Sino-Russian ties. Zhang noted that their relationship had reached “its highest historical level” and emphasized China’s desire to keep working closely with Russia.

Belousov’s visit to China focused on key issues, including the war in Ukraine, and came just ahead of President Xi’s planned trip to Russia for the BRICS summit.Zhang highlighted that these developments reflect the broader strategic partnership between Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, noting that the relationship between the two nations continues to progress “in a healthy and stable manner,” according to China’s military ministry.