Russia approved secret China military training at top level, sources reveal

According to classified Russian and European officials, China’s covert warfare training of Russian forces was approved by President Vladimir Putin’s defence minister and directly involved at least four Russian and Chinese generals, underlining the rapid expansion of defense cooperation between Moscow and Beijing.

The officials confirmed that the participation of such esteemed figures in training linked to the Ukraine war highlighted the strategic importance of this cooperation, which has sparked deep alarm in Europe.

The reported involvement of Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov and multiple senior generals from both countries suggests the exchanges were not military cooperation but rather an approved framework. These high-level oversight showed that defense collaboration between Moscow and Beijing has evolved from enhanced partnerships into integrated military operations.

China uphold objectivity stance despite growing scrutiny over Russia ties

Beijing has again denied allegations that it is directly supporting Russia's military campaign, emphasizing that its position on the Ukraine conflict remains neutral. The reported training programme is likely to heighten anxieties among European governments that China’s practical cooperation with Russia is increasingly challenging.

The reported exchanges demonstrate how both countries are seeking to benefit from each other’s comparative advantages. This collaboration allows both countries to enhance capabilities without entering into a formal mutual defense treaty.

The reported training could further deepen a divide between China and Western governments if additional evidence emerges connecting Beijing more directly to Russia’s military operations.

At present, European policymakers may face mounting pressure to expand sanctions and intensify export controls on Chinese firms connected to their defence industries.

Additionally, the current revelations will likely aggravate tensions over the strategic alignment between Russia and China, driving major efforts within NATO to strengthen defence planning and mitigate vulnerabilities to global security dilemmas.