China and Russia Unite Against US at Beijing Defense Forum

Chinese and Russian military leaders criticized the United States at a security forum in Beijing, while China's second most senior military commander expressed a desire to strengthen defense ties with Washington. The lack of regular communication between the US and Chinese militaries is a concern as tensions rise over various issues, including the South China Sea and Taiwan. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu warned of the dangers of Western involvement in the Ukraine war, praising Russia-China relations as "exemplary." Chinese Vice Chairman Zhang Youxia criticized "some countries" for undermining China's government but also emphasized the need to improve military ties with the US. The US delegation's participation comes as exchanges between the US and China increase ahead of an expected summit between President Joe Biden and China's Xi Jinping.