China-Russia Strategic Coordination Deepens, Asymmetric Partnership Benefits Beijing (visegradinsight.eu)

• Lavrov: Russia-China ties unprecedented in depth and scope (20 Jan 2026).
• Russia pledges support for China on Taiwan contingency (28 Dec 2025).
• Joint bomber patrols near Japan and coordinated diplomacy for Venezuela.

"China and Russia are deepening coordination across energy, defense, and information operations, but the relationship is asymmetrical, allowing Beijing to benefit from Moscow's willingness to absorb risks. Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov on 20 January 2026 called the ties unprecedented. China integrates Russian actions into its strategic competition with the West, while Russia serves as a buffer."