In a strong show of solidarity, Russia and China have emphasized their strategic partnership as a defensive measure against potential threats from the United States. Both countries have reiterated that their cooperation is not aimed at targeting any third country but rather at safeguarding their own interests.

Addressing reporters at her weekly briefing, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova asserted that if faced with a "double containment" by the United States, Russia and China would respond with "double counteraction." Zakharova's statement came in response to recent reports indicating the U.S. interest in deploying a mid-range missile system to Japan for joint military exercises.

Zakharova emphasized that Russia and China's reaction to any additional missile threats would be far from being political, as their intentions towards other countries remained defensive rather than aggressive. The spokesperson reiterated that their comprehensive partnership was not directed against any third nations.

President Vladimir Putin and President Xi Jinping had signed a "no limits" partnership agreement in 2022, just weeks before Putin's forces entered Ukraine. The leaders further deepened their cooperation in May of this year, pledging to strengthen their "comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation" for a new era.

Although the two countries have not officially declared a military alliance, Putin recently described Russia and China as "allies in every sense of the word." This sentiment has been demonstrated through joint military exercises, including ongoing naval drills that commenced on Tuesday.

As Putin oversaw the launch of the manoeuvres, he warned the United States against attempts to surpass Russia's military power in the Asia-Pacific region. The Russian President's remarks serve as a reminder of the growing strategic cooperation between Russia and China, presenting a formidable force should they be confronted with any threats.

While Moscow and Beijing continue to strengthen their partnership, they remain firm in their assertion that their collaboration aims solely at defending their nations' interests, rather than targeting any other country.