US intel warns Taiwan of China-Russia military ties

During a congressional hearing on Thursday, US intelligence officials expressed concerns that China and Russia are intensifying their military collaboration, with a particular focus on Taiwan.

Lt Gen. Jeffrey Kruse, director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, indicated the serious implications of this partnership: “Bottom line is that basically, if we were to have a conflict with one, the chances are we would have a second front.”

The relationship between Moscow and Beijing has deepened significantly following their declaration of a “no limits” partnership right before Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. This alliance has been economically beneficial for both sides, with China gaining access to cheaper Russian oil and natural gas, thus bolstering Russia’s economy amidst heavy international sanctions.

China’s Position on the Russia-Ukraine War?
While China maintains a stance of neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, it has managed its internal narrative by controlling social media criticism of Moscow’s actions, which Beijing has not officially condemned or labeled as an invasion.

“We see China and Russia, for the first time, exercising together in relation to Taiwan and recognizing that this is a place where China definitely wants Russia to be working with them, and we see no reason why they wouldn’t,” stated Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines.

When queried about whether the Department of Defense is considering this enhanced cooperation in its strategic planning, Kruse affirmed, “From the Department of Defense perspective, that would certainly be the case, and it just has to be taken into account whether or not we actually believe there would be two full-up fronts. That is analysis and assessments that will mature over time.”

China’s Claim over Taiwan
The Chinese Communist Party, which has never governed Taiwan, nevertheless claims the democratic island as part of its territory and has vowed to bring it under Beijing’s control, by force if necessary.

Since 2022, China and Russia have conducted five military drills, with the most recent occurring last year in the East China Sea and the Sea of Japan.

Ukraine has accused Chinese companies of supplying drones and the majority of drone-related components used by Russian forces, allegations that China denies. In response, Washington has imposed sanctions on several Chinese firms accused of similar activities.