China and Russia to Conduct Joint Naval and Air Drills in Pacific

The Chinese Ministry of Defense announced on Sunday that Chinese and Russian naval forces will conduct joint exercises in the waters and airspace near the Chinese city of Qingdao this month.

According to a ministry statement, "After the conclusion of the drills, some forces from both sides will proceed to designated areas in the Pacific Ocean to carry out joint maritime patrols."

The ministry added that these exercises are held annually "with the aim of jointly addressing security challenges and maintaining peace and stability in the region."

The Wall Street Journal reported that the Chinese navy is intensifying its encirclement of Taiwan.