China, Russia, and the U.S.: Tensions rise at Beijing Xiangshan Forum

Chinese and Russian military officials criticized the United States as an agent of global instability at a military forum in Beijing. Russia's defense minister, Sergei Shoigu, warned of grave consequences over Western involvement in the war in Ukraine, while China's vice chairman of the Central Military Commission, Zhang Youxia, issued oblique criticisms of the United States but expressed willingness to improve military ties. The forum, attended by delegations from over 100 countries, served as a platform for Russia and the United States to win over public opinion in the Global South. The issue of Taiwan was emphasized as a "core interest" for China, with warnings against deliberate provocation.