"Chinese Defense Minister Defies West, Strengthens Ties with Russia and Belarus"

Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu is visiting Russia and Belarus in a show of support for the nations that the West has sought to isolate over Russia's invasion of Ukraine. During his six-day trip, Li will deliver an address at the Moscow Conference on International Security and meet with defense leaders from Russia and other countries. The visit highlights China and Russia's alignment in their foreign policies to undermine the Western-led liberal-democratic world order, despite economic and reputational costs. Li will also visit Belarus, a close Russian ally, and hold meetings with state and military leaders. China claims neutrality in the conflict but has maintained robust economic and diplomatic ties with Moscow.