The Eurasian Power Axis: Strategic Impact of Sino-Russian Cooperation on Europe (ecfr.eu)

• Exchange of geopolitical legitimacy: Russia supports China's Taiwan claims for trade continuity.
• Dual-use technology transfer: Chinese components remain critical for Russian defense manufacturing.
• European strategic dilemma: Balancing economic ties with China against the existential threat of Russian escalation.

"The symbiotic relationship between Beijing and Moscow has evolved from opportunistic trade to a structural security challenge for Europe. China provides critical dual-use technology and economic lifelines to Russia, effectively sustaining the conflict in Ukraine. In exchange, Russia provides geopolitical backing for China’s ambitions in the Indo-Pacific, specifically regarding Taiwan. This alignment forces Europe to move beyond trade-centric diplomacy and develop a robust 'derisking' strategy that addresses both defense procurement and supply chain dependencies."