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High-profile visits between leaders, including Xi Jinping's visit to Russia, have further solidified this strategic alliance.
As Russia's primary trade partner, China announced a "no limits" partnership with Moscow shortly before the invasion of Ukraine.
Despite potential economic repercussions, Beijing has remained committed to supporting Russia, providing crucial economic assistance and acting as a conduit for military goods amidst Western sanctions.
Under Kim Jong Un, North Korea has established a robust military alliance with Russia, highlighted by a defense partnership that encompasses mutual defense commitments.
Isolated from the global community, North Korea has consistently supported Russia, voting against UN resolutions that condemn its actions in Ukraine.
Footage that emerged in October 2024 shows North Korean soldiers receiving uniforms and equipment at a training facility in Russia's Far East. This supports reports from South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) that about 1,500 soldiers have been sent to Russia to undergo military training for deployment in Ukraine.
The close ties extend to the military, with Belarus allowing the deployment of Russian nuclear weapons on its territory, further integrating the two nations' defense strategies.
Belarus is often described as Russia's closest ally and has been characterized as a "puppet state." Under President Alexander Lukashenko, Belarus has entered numerous treaties with Russia, relying heavily on Russian economic support, including energy subsidies and military aid.
Russian troops are frequently stationed in Belarus, which served as a staging ground for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Russia and Iran, both under heavy international sanctions, have strengthened their strategic partnership in recent years.
Following the Ukraine invasion, military cooperation surged, with Iran providing crucial drones and ammunition for Russia's efforts. This collaboration reflects their mutual interest in countering US influence in the Middle East.
Syria became a key ally for Russia in the Middle East under the lengthy rule of former President al-Assad, who relied heavily on Russian military support during the civil war.
However, al-Assad was ousted and fled the country in December 2024, leaving the future of Syria's relationship with Russia uncertain. What's more, Russia's failure to keep an ally in power may be seen as a sign of weakness.
Vietnam has maintained a cautious stance on the Ukraine conflict, avoiding public condemnation of Russia. During President Putin's visit, Vietnamese leaders praised his political stability and committed to deepening their strategic partnership, positioning Russia as a key ally amid rising US influence.
In recent years, Vietnam has strengthened its ties with Russia, particularly through a strategic defense agreement aimed at enhancing military cooperation. The two countries have collaborated on various economic initiatives, focusing on trade and defense technology.
Cuba has maintained a long-standing historical relationship with Russia since the Cold War, marked by military, economic, and cultural cooperation. Despite the dissolution of the Soviet Union, ties have persisted.
Recently, Russia has bolstered its military presence in the Caribbean, reaffirming its influence in the region. In turn, Cuba has supported Russia in international forums, opposing US influence and demonstrating solidarity amid sanctions and geopolitical tensions.
Venezuela stands as one of Russia's most significant allies in Latin America, with strong military and economic ties under President Nicolás Maduro's regime. Russia has provided critical support during Venezuela's ongoing political crisis, including backing for Maduro's government in international forums.
The two countries collaborate on oil production and energy projects, reinforcing economic partnerships amidst US sanctions.
Serbia maintains a strong alliance with Russia, rooted in historical and political ties. This partnership is characterized by mutual support on international issues, such as opposing Kosovo's independence, aligning with Serbia's stance.
Economically, Serbia benefits from Russian energy supplies and investments, especially in the oil and gas sectors.
Since the invasion of Ukraine, India has shielded Russia at the UN by abstaining from votes against Moscow. The country has also increased imports of Russian oil.
India is Russia's oldest ally, with ties dating back to the Soviet era. In 1971, they signed the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation, solidifying their diplomatic and strategic relationship despite India's non-alignment stance.
In 1992, Russia and eight other former Soviet republics established the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) as a successor to the Warsaw Pact, which had been disbanded a year earlier.
The Warsaw Pact was the Soviet Union's response to NATO, uniting Communist nations under Moscow's influence. While the CSTO lacks the Warsaw Pact's strength, it has effectively limited NATO's expansion and enables Russia to deploy troops and export weapons to member states.
Russia provides military support and arms to Armenia and has a military base in the country. The Armenian government often looks to Moscow for assistance during periods of heightened tension.
Armenia has a longstanding military alliance with Russia, which is crucial for its national security, particularly in the context of its conflicts with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh.
Over the years, the CSTO has seen a reduction in its membership. Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Uzbekistan have all left the organization since its inception. The current members, alongside Russia, include Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.
Sources: (CNN) (Euronews) (Deutsche Welle)
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Who are Russia’s top allies?
China and North Korea are strengthening ties with the Kremlin
LIFESTYLE Geopolitics
As Russia navigates an increasingly isolated position on the global stage since its invasion of Ukraine, its alliances play a crucial role in shaping its foreign policy and military strategy. From Belarus to China and North Korea, these partnerships are driven by shared interests, economic ties, and political support, particularly in response to Western sanctions. Understanding these relationships is essential for grasping the complexities of contemporary international relations involving Russia.
Click on to learn more about Russia's allies.