Russian military personnel who had undergone secret training in China have returned to take part in the war against Ukraine. This was reported by sources familiar with the situation. Such cooperation between Beijing and Moscow could change the balance of power at the front.
Chinese training of Russians: what is known
According to the agency Reuters, Russian military personnel were secretly trained in China. Upon completion of their training, they returned to Russia to take part in hostilities against Ukraine. Sources familiar with the details of the operation emphasise the high level of secrecy of this cooperation.
How this affects the war in Ukraine
The return of Russians trained in China could mean an increase in the tactical capabilities of the Russian army. Analysts point out that the training could be in new technologies or non-standard combat methods. This creates additional challenges for Ukrainian defenders and could affect the dynamics of military operations on certain frontline areas.
Military cooperation between China and Russia has been a subject of diplomatic discussions, but recent developments indicate a possible new level Beijing's involvement into a conflict.
Reaction of the international community
The news of Russian training in China has caused concern among Ukraine's Western partners. Some countries have already called for additional monitoring of cooperation between Moscow and Beijing. International organisations are analysing how such actions by China could affect the security situation in Eastern Europe.
There have been no official comments from the Chinese side on this issue. Russian officials have also refrained from making public statements.
Why it matters
The secret training of the Russian military in China may indicate a deepening of strategic cooperation between the two countries. This poses new challenges for Ukraine and its allies and underscores the need for closer monitoring of the military support Moscow may receive from third countries.
