Russia-China Military Cooperation During the Conflict in Ukraine: A Systematic Literature Review

The growing military collaboration between Russia and China has drawn considerable attention, especially amid Russia’s current military engagements, as it mirrors wider geopolitical transformations and strategic partnerships. This systematic literature review analyzes the complex aspects of Russia-China military collaboration, covering bilateral interactions, regional consequences, and strategic drivers, while framing these developments within the broader context of global affairs. By analyzing prior academic research, we discern trends, omissions, and inconsistencies in the existing body of work, thus presenting a thorough examination of how bilateral military cooperation has been influenced by and adapted to Russia’s conflicts. The review employs a systematic method to examine scholarly articles, policy papers, and expert evaluations, applying thematic classification to extract essential findings. The study indicates an increase in military collaboration between Russia and China in specific areas, including joint drills and weapon sales, but this cooperation is limited by differing strategic goals and international influences. The literature also highlights the role of regional dynamics, particularly in Central Asia and the Arctic, where both nations seek to balance cooperation with competition. Ultimately, this review underscores the complexity of the relationship, which is neither purely transactional nor fully aligned, but rather a calculated partnership driven by situational necessity and shared opposition to Western hegemony. The research advances the wider discussion on major power dynamics and establishes a basis for subsequent investigations into the consequences of this developing partnership.