Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu arrived in China on Sunday to meet Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The talks focused on security and bilateral relations, reaffirming Moscow’s long-standing support for Beijing on the Taiwan issue. This visit follows a December meeting in Moscow and highlights the close, “no limits” partnership between the two countries.

Statements from Moscow and Beijing
Shoigu told Wang that Russia consistently opposes any form of Taiwan independence and recognizes the People’s Republic of China as the sole legitimate government representing all of China. He criticized external actors for attempting to destabilize the Taiwan Strait. Wang emphasized the need for multilateralism, a multipolar world order, and stronger strategic coordination between Russia and China.

Taiwan’s Response
Taiwan’s foreign ministry sharply condemned Shoigu’s remarks, saying they “severely undermine our nation’s sovereignty” and warned that attempts to distort Taiwan’s status constitute bullying that threatens international peace and stability.

Regional and Global Implications
The reaffirmed Russia-China alignment on Taiwan underscores a strengthening of their strategic ties at a time of rising Indo-Pacific tensions. Analysts see the development as a signal that both Moscow and Beijing may coordinate more closely on sensitive territorial and security issues, potentially complicating U.S. and allied policy in the region.

Next Steps in Diplomacy
Shoigu’s trip coincides with ongoing diplomatic talks between Russia, Ukraine, and U.S. officials seeking to end the nearly four-year conflict in Ukraine. Observers will monitor whether Moscow’s support for Beijing influences these negotiations or broader international responses to regional security challenges.

Analysis
Shoigu’s statements highlight the increasingly coordinated foreign policy between Russia and China, projecting a united front on sensitive territorial issues. For Taiwan, this signals sustained pressure from two major powers, while the international community faces the challenge of balancing support for sovereignty with broader strategic considerations. The timing, alongside Russia–Ukraine negotiations, also suggests Moscow is signaling its global influence and willingness to assert strategic partnerships even while engaged in European conflicts.

With information from Reuters.