In a new Strategic Concept unveiled in June, NATO said for the first time that Beijing presents "systemic challenges" to the international order and expressed concern about its partnership with Moscow. Despite mutually supportive rhetoric, that partnership functions only within limits. Beijing has not endorsed the invasion of Ukraine or offered to make up for economic shortfalls stemming from sanctions.
As long as China can hope to divide the United States and the EU, it will downplay fears of a Russian alliance.
Convergence between US and EU policies directed against against China might nudge Beijing towards closer cooperation with Moscow.
Globally, both states will work to weaken the foundations of the rules-based international order.
Moscow and Beijing will exert influence via their preferred instruments: military in Russia's case, economic in China's.
