Russia and China Bolster Missile Defense Cooperation Amid US 'Golden Dome' and Nuclear Testing Concerns

Moscow Hosts Key Strategic Stability Talks

Moscow was the venue for in-depth consultations on missile defense and strategic stability between Russia and China on November 19, 2025. The talks concluded with both nations reaffirming their commitment to strengthening cooperation in these critical areas. The Russian Foreign Ministry announced the discussions on November 20, 2025, highlighting the mutual satisfaction with the level and quality of bilateral dialogue.

The Russian delegation was led by Andrey Malyugin, Special Representative of the Russian Foreign Minister for Strategic Stability, while Li Chijiang, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Arms Control and Disarmament of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, headed the Chinese delegation. Additionally, Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov engaged in discussions with General Zhang Youxia, Vice Chairman of China's Central Military Commission, during the Chinese delegation's visit to the Russian capital.

Joint Analysis of Destabilizing Factors

During the consultations, both sides engaged in a comprehensive analysis of 'relevant destabilizing factors that generate strategic risks for global and regional security' and exchanged views on 'ways of mitigating such risks'. This dialogue underscores a shared perspective on the evolving international security landscape and the necessity for coordinated responses to perceived threats.

Concerns Over US 'Golden Dome' Missile Shield

A significant point of discussion and mutual concern was US President Donald Trump's proposed 'Golden Dome' missile defense system. Russia and China have consistently voiced strong opposition to this initiative, describing it as 'deeply destabilizing' and warning that it could lead to the 'militarization of space' and fuel an arms race. The 'Golden Dome' is envisioned as a multi-layer, space-based system designed to detect and intercept ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missiles. President Trump announced plans for the system in May 2025, projecting a cost of $175 billion and a three-year completion timeline. Critics from Moscow and Beijing view it as a revival of elements from the Reagan-era 'Star Wars' project.

Opposition to Nuclear Weapons Testing Resumption

Another critical issue addressed was President Trump's stated intention to resume nuclear weapons testing, which would mark an end to a moratorium of over 30 years. Trump has cited perceived increases in Russian and Chinese nuclear stockpiles as justification for this move. However, both Russia and China have criticized this stance. China, in particular, has reiterated its 'no first use' nuclear policy and its adherence to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty, emphasizing the importance of maintaining global strategic stability.

Deepening Military-Technical Cooperation

The recent talks are part of a broader trend of deepening military and technical cooperation between Russia and China. This partnership has intensified, particularly since 2014, with China gaining access to advanced Russian missile, air defense, and electronic warfare technologies. The two nations have also conducted various joint military exercises, including computer-simulated missile defense drills like 'Airspace Security 2017' and naval exercises such as 'Maritime Interaction 2025'. In 2019, Russia announced its collaboration with China on developing a ballistic missile early warning system (BMEWS), further demonstrating their strategic alignment.