Russia cannot co-opt China to back it fully on Ukraine

Significance

The document says China as well as Russia is against NATO expansion; in return Moscow objects to the US-UK-Australian AUKUS deal and the creation of any new security blocs in the Asia-Pacific region.

Impacts

• Russian energy export prospects have been boosted by Gazprom's second gas supply contract signed with China.
• Moscow will look to Beijing for economic help in the event of new sanctions.
• Although Russian-Chinese exercises enhance military inter-operability, their main aim is political.
• Beijing was unhappy about Russia's seizure of Crimea and will be concerned at moves towards independence for eastern Ukraine.