Russia and China to Boost Defense Cooperation.

Chinese General Li Shangfu and Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu have agreed to strengthen connections and collaboration between their militaries. Both countries are facing increased international scrutiny due to the invasion of Ukraine and the threat of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan. The meeting aimed to demonstrate the high level of China-Russia relations and the determination to strengthen strategic cooperation between the two militaries. China has concluded a series of military drills that saw its forces surround Taiwan and simulate strikes against it, in response to Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen's trip to the U.S. and subsequent meeting with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.