"China and Russia strengthen military ties, sending message to US"

A Chinese defense official sanctioned by the US, Gen. Li Shangfu, visited Moscow and met with Putin and Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, signaling China's unyielding support for Russia amid the Ukraine war. The meeting could intensify concerns that China may provide lethal aid to Russia, despite its claims of neutrality. China has been Russia's most important international partner, providing diplomatic and economic support. The meeting is seen as a middle finger to the US, which sanctioned the Chinese official in 2018. The move could also help dent the global power of the US, China's chief geopolitical rival.