According to reports from three European intelligence agencies and documents accessed by Reuters, China’s military undertook secret training of approximately 200 Russian soldiers in late 2025. These personnel have reportedly returned to participate in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The training predominantly centred around drone operations, as highlighted in a dual-language agreement signed by high-ranking officials from both nations in Beijing on July 2, 2025.

The agreement, which was reviewed by Reuters, indicated that the training took place at military installations in cities such as Beijing and Nanjing. It was reportedly agreed that hundreds of Chinese troops would likewise receive training in Russia as part of this arrangement. The intelligence sources have expressed that the involvement of trained Russian troops in direct combat demonstrates a deeper engagement from China in the Ukraine war than previously acknowledged.

Both the Russian and Chinese defence ministries have not responded to requests for comments regarding the details disclosed. This comes amid claims from China regarding its neutral position on the Ukraine crisis, asserting a commitment to promoting peace talks.

Implications for Regional Security

The increasingly close relationship between Russia and China raises concerns for European powers, which regard Russia as a significant security threat. Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia in 2022, both nations have conducted various joint military exercises. Additionally, prior to the invasion, the two countries declared a “no limits” strategic partnership, pledging closer military cooperation.

As Western nations attempted to isolate Russia, China has reportedly bolstered its partnership by purchasing Russian resources such as oil and gas. This development poses potential implications for regional stability, particularly as the West calls for Beijing to utilise its influence over Moscow to avert further escalation of the conflict.

Upcoming engagements between Chinese leaders and Russian President Vladimir Putin further exemplify the tight-knit relationship, which Beijing and Moscow publicly describe as an “all-weather” partnership.

Training Focus and Military Capabilities

Reports indicate that drones have emerged as crucial assets in the Ukraine conflict, with both Ukrainian and Russian forces employing these technologies extensively. The training agreement detailed that Russian troops would receive instruction in various disciplines, including electronic warfare, drones, and armoured infantry tactics.

European intelligence has identified instances of Chinese technical development supporting Russian drone manufacturers, although the Chinese foreign ministry previously denied awareness of such collaborations. The specific types of training received by Russian troops encompass both theoretical and practical applications, intended to enhance their operational effectiveness.

Internal Russian military reports reviewed by Reuters described several training sessions conducted in China, including courses on combined arms warfare and drone tactics. These sessions aimed to equip Russian personnel with the skills to operate various types of drones in combat scenarios. The incorporation of advanced training techniques such as flight simulators was highlighted, suggesting a commitment to improving the tactical proficiency of the Russian forces.

Some training sessions took place at distinguished military facilities, with specific reports detailing exercises focused on strategic military operations. These developments indicate that Russia seeks to augment its military capabilities through foreign partnerships, potentially altering the dynamics of the conflict in Ukraine.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share